A stage for the most dedicated young string players.
An adjudicated competition for string players, organized by grade group, that rewards careful preparation, musical maturity, technical proficiency, and the courage to perform, with cash prizes for the Grand Prize and Concerto winners.
Season update. The inaugural competition takes place Saturday, November 6, 2027. The Festival takes place the same day and is open to string players.
Know the essentials.
Five groups, organized by grade.
Contestants enter the group that matches their grade in school.
- AGroup AGrade 4 and below
- BGroup BGrades 5–6
- CGroup CGrades 7–8
- DGroup DGrades 9–10
- EGroup EGrades 11–12
How performances are recognized.
Every contestant is placed within their group. The strongest performances rise to the top of the ladder.
Cash prizes are awarded to the Grand Prize winners and the Concerto Competition winner.
- Grand Prize
Awarded to a performer of exceptional technical and musical command. The jury may decline to award it.
- First Place
Awarded within each group.
- Second Place
Awarded within each group.
- Third Place
Awarded within each group.
- Finalist
A performer playing at a high level who is not among the top three.
- Notable Distinction
A performer who plays with strong technique and musicality.
- Honorable Mention
A performer who plays through cleanly and faithfully to the score.
- Participant
An entrant who does not place in the categories above.
Concerto Competition
Open to all grades and all instruments. The winner receives a cash prize. It runs alongside the grouped competition and is open to every instrument.
Simple, transparent entry fees.
Payment is required to submit your application.
- Contestant fee
- $95 per entry
Ready to take the stage?
Review the rules, choose your repertoire, and submit your application. Questions? Email sensationalstrings@gmail.com.