Kennedy Center VSA Young Soloists Award

Scholarship Value: $2,000

Awards Available: 4

Award Deadline: Jan 8, 2025


Each year outstanding musicians with disabilities from around the world are selected to participate in the Access/VSA International Young Musicians Program. This opportunity is open to soloists and ensembles of any instrument or genre including classical, jazz, hip-hop, rock and more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What qualifies as a disability?

A: Disability is a broad umbrella that covers a variety of lived experiences. Eligible young musicians may have visible, physical, and/or sensory conditions, as well as less visible conditions like anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness/pain, PTSD, dyslexia, neurodivergence, and more. Review definitions of disability associated with the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act.

Q: How old do you have to be to enter?

A: You must be between 14 and 25 years old at the time of the application deadline to be eligible.

Q: I’m in a band, does that count?

A: Yes! Any musical ensemble, including bands, of two to five members can enter so long as all members meet the age requirements and at least one member of the ensemble has a disability. Only members of the ensemble with disabilities are eligible for the financial award.

Q: When do the 2025 activities take place?

A: Activities at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. will occur July 24-28, 2025. There will be additional virtual activities scheduled in consultation with program participants.

Q: What is included in the application?

A: The application asks for some basic contact information, a short statement (no more than 250 words) about your musical background and why you feel you would benefit from the program, and 3 videos of you performing.

Q: What type of musical selections should I submit?

A: We suggest the following guidelines for selecting musical submissions:

The application requires links to the applicant(s) performing three (3) music selections. Each selection may be up to 10 minutes in length. Do your best to show your range as a performer. Award winners perform live. Submit recordings that accurately represent you in a recent live performance (in the last year).

The application platform only accepts YouTube of Vimeo links. Please contact us if you require an accommodation.

How to Apply:

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