Young Vocal Artists Competition 2026

Dakota Choral Union Presents

2026 Young Vocal Artists Competition

9:00 AM, Saturday, March 21, 2026

South Canyon Lutheran Church, 700 44th St, Rapid City, SD 57702

Applications due by March 2, 2026

Registration Fee: $40, Scholarships available

Competition Requirements:

There will be two competing categories auditioning concurrently – the lower division for 9th and 10th grades and the upper division for 11th and 12th grades.  However, if a student in the 10th grade wishes to compete in the upper division, they may do so.  Each student will be required to perform two pieces of contrasting styles; both pieces are to be memorized, at least one of which will be in a foreign language.  Broadway showtunes or popular music are not permitted.  Students will need to provide their own accompanists.

First, second and third place winners from the upper division will be featured on the Dakota Choral Union spring concert, April 19 at 3:00 p.m. at South Canyon Lutheran Church.  Monetary awards will be given to the first ($750), second ($500) and third place ($250) winners in the upper division and an honorable mention will be awarded to the highest score in the lower division.

These are open auditions.  Students are encouraged to listen to each other’s auditions.  Each student will have 8 minutes to perform their two pieces, after which the student will have a 5-minute mini-lesson with one of the judges.  We want this to be an educational experience in a supportive and positive environment.

After lunch there will be a group session of vocal warm ups and exercises led by one of our vocal professionals.  Announcements of the winners will follow the group session.

The registration fee is $40.  If your student is planning on staying for lunch, there will be an additional $5 fee that will be payable the day of the competition.

Please submit applications and registration fees by March 2, 2026 to:

Dakota Choral Union

Attn: Young Vocal Artist Competition

PO Box 9083

Rapid City, SD 57709

Download Letter and Registration Form

Thank you – we look forward to hearing your students!