Open call: Young Audiences Music Awards 2024

An initiative of global youth music network Jeunesses Musicales International (JMI), the scheme, founded in 2008, celebrates innovation and creativity by acknowledging and assisting exceptional productions that involve young people. It welcomes submissions from top live music productions worldwide targeting young audiences.

Applications are open to musicians across the world between 18 and 100 years old. Eligible categories include Best Participatory Project, Best Small Ensemble, Best Large Ensemble, Best School Concert and Best Opera. 

Previous YAMawards winners include Umculo (South Africa), Muziektheater Transparant (Belgium), The Alehouse Sessions (Norway), Orthemis Orchestra (Spain), Body Rhythm Factory (Denmark) and La Balle Rouge (France), among others.

Assessment

The judging panel will thoroughly evaluate each finalist based on criteria like the depth of storytelling, level of craftsmanship and passion. This assessment will encompass several aspects, including:

• Quality of music and all artistic elements like text and choreography within their respective genres. 
• Performers’ talent and their ability to engage with the audience effectively. 
• Relevance and innovation of the programme, its potential to open new musical horizons for young audiences, and its global touring potential.

Note: Specific criteria vary depending on the category, such as high-quality staging and music for Best Opera productions, and factors like artistic relevance, social impact, engagement and creative expression for the Best Participatory Project with young audiences.

Prizes

• Small Ensemble for Young Audiences: €1 000 ($1 085)
• Large Ensemble for Young Audiences: €1 000
• Opera for Young Audiences: €1 000
• School Concert for Young Audiences: €1 000
• Participatory Project with young audiences: €1 000
• Public Choice Award: €1 000

Application

Interested musicians may submit their applications here. The deadline for application is 15 April.

The nominees will be announced on 17 August, with the public voting deadline set for 17 September.

View the original call here.