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2026 Southard Music Competition

The UNC Southard Music Competition has traditionally been one of the school’s premier showcase events, highlighting the breadth and depth of the musical talent of students as soloists and chamber players.

The 2026 Southard Music Competition is open to all enrolled UNC Students (graduate and undergraduate) who are recommended by their applied teachers. All application requirements must be fulfilled to be eligible for an award.

Three scholarship awards will be awarded to outstanding soloists and/or ensembles:

First Place: $2,000
Second Place: $1,450
Third Place: $1,000

The award is to be split by a chamber group or with the accompanist of a solo work if the accompanist is a student.

All three winners will perform at the PVA Spotlight Signature Event on April 2, 2026 at 7:30pm in the Performance Hall.

Please note that first place winners in any category from prior year competitions are ineligible to compete again.