Young Texas Artists Music Competition (YTA) is an internationally recognized official music competition of the state of Texas and career development program for emerging classical artists. Also a valued community contributor, YTA offers free or low-cost cultural opportunities for the public. YTA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
The Competition & Career Development Initiative
Competition candidates are promising musicians in the divisions of Piano; Strings; Winds, Brass, Percussion, Harp & Guitar, ages 18-32; and Voice ages 20-32, who are Texas residents or are enrolled in a Texas college or music school. Winners receive cash awards and important career services including professional photography, opportunities for mentoring and featured performances with Texas orchestras and other professional organizations.
Finalists’ Concert and Awards Show (Saturday, March 11, 2023)
This highly anticipated evening is annually held at the historic Crighton Theater in Conroe, Texas. Two finalists from each division vie for gold and silver medals, as well as a grand prize and audience choice awards. The talent promises to amaze! Single tickets are available.


2023 Bach, Beethoven & Barbecue (Saturday, March 11, 2023)
Blending high-toned classics with down-home Texana, our Bach, Beethoven & Barbecue gala features the 2023 Finalists' Concert and Awards Show, a pre-concert Texas barbecue dinner, auction and after-party with live Texas music and dancing in a grand pavilion near the Crighton Theatre. Proceeds help sustain operations, enhance career services and expand cultural programs for the community. Sponsors and volunteers are needed and gratefully appreciated.
Sponsor Recognition & Benefits
YTA sponsors receive high visibility in print and digital media, theater and pavilion signage, programs and introductions, invitations and email marketing to several thousand patrons and prospects. Sponsor benefits include reserved theater tickets and gala tables, and a special on-stage dinner with our distinguished jurists.
Other Special Events
Throughout the year, our YTA Circle outreach group presents stimulating lectures, seminars, musicales and house concerts. Subscribe to our email list or watch this website for dates and places.
Community
YTA strives to provide free or low-cost cultural opportunities for area residents. Among these are free tickets for the public to attend the three-day YTA Preliminary Competition; free tickets for music students and low-cost tickets for the public to attend the Finalists’ Concert & Awards; and ongoing musicales and seminars conducted by YTA Circle, the organization’s community outreach group.
Volunteer Involvement
YTA offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities that are fun, educational and suited to many interests and skills.
Please let us know how we may include you. Donor? Volunteer? Guest at an event?
YTA will enhance your cultural life and expand your circle of like-minded friends, as we help deserving young Texans reach their true potential and also contribute to the cultural enrichment of our community and state. Y’all come!