For 45 years, the Bangor Symphony Orchestra has been encouraging and recognizing the outstanding talents of Maine’s high school instrumentalists. We invite you to become a part of this long history by participating in the 45th Annual Maine High School Concerto Competition.
The first-prize winner for the Annas-Cupp Award will be featured in a concerto performance with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra at the annual Young People’s Concerts. Don’t miss this opportunity to showcase your talents and become part of Bangor Symphony Orchestra history!
Important Dates
MONDAY, JANUARY 12, 2026
All applications must be postmarked prior to midnight
FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2026
Applicants notified of selection for public audition recital
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2026
Public audition recital (Storm date TBD)
SUNDAY, MAY 10 & MONDAY, MAY 11, 2026
Winner rehearses and performs with BSO
Awards
- 1st Place, Annas-Cupp Award, $500 and will be featured in a concerto performance with the Bangor Symphony Orchestra during their annual Young People’s Concerts
- 2nd Place, Friends Award, $250
- 3rd Place, Friends Award, $150
Eligibility
This competition is open to any solo string, woodwind, brass, percussion, harp, and piano students in grades 9 through 12, at the time of the application due date. Entrants must not have graduated and must be enrolled in high school or high school program (e.g. home school). Entrants must not have taken the GED. Dual enrollment students are eligible. Entrants must be Maine residents, but may attend high school outside the state of Maine. If questions arise, proof of age, enrollment, and residency may be necessary. Winners of the Annas-Cupp Award in any preceding year are ineligible to compete.