2026
NEW YORK
INTERNATIONAL
COMPETITION FOR
PERFORMING ARTS
MAR 22–26
The World`s Stage at Secret Arts Calls for Young Brilliance!
The World`s Stage at Secret Arts Calls for Young Brilliance!
Welcome to the New York Competition for Performing Arts - 2026!
We are delighted to invite musicians and performers from around the world to participate in the inaugural International New York Competition for Performing Arts. This exciting new event celebrates artistic excellence, creativity, and the spirit of international collaboration.
This is your chance to perform in New York at the exciting new Secret Arts Hall venue in Long Island City, a vibrant 9,000 sq. ft. arts facility that will host our competition from March 22–26, 2026. Open to participants ages from 7 to 35.
This is your chance to perform in New York at the exciting new Secret Arts Hall venue in Long Island City, a vibrant 9,000 sq. ft. arts facility that will host our competition from March 22–26, 2026. Open to participants ages from 7 to 35.
Awards & Opportunities
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Performances at the exciting new Secret Arts Hall venue in New York City -
Cash prizes, diplomas, and certificates for winners. Total prizes 10 000 USD -
Masterclasses led by the competition judges -
A Gala Concert where you can impress audiences and showcase your talent -
Special Prize for Grand Prix winners will perform at Carnegie Hall on June 10, 2026
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ABOUT THE COMPETITION
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The New York Competition for Performing Arts is designed to inspire performers, create unforgettable experiences, and open doors to new opportunities in the arts. Our mission is to unite talented artists from around the world, celebrating their dedication and supporting their artistic growth.
More than just a performance event, the competition is a cultural exchange — a chance for participants to engage in rehearsals, masterclasses, and discussions that foster community, innovation, and inspiration.
More than just a performance event, the competition is a cultural exchange — a chance for participants to engage in rehearsals, masterclasses, and discussions that foster community, innovation, and inspiration.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, the 2026 competition will be held at Secret Arts, a brand-new 9,000 sq. ft. arts facility in Long Island City. Built on the legacy of the award-winning Secret Theatre, this creative hub also houses The Secret Academy and Vital Arts Studios, featuring 20 new spaces for performance, education, and collaboration.
The performances themselves will take place inside The Secret Theatre, located within Secret Arts. This vibrant venue benefits the community, supports artists, and adds energy to one of New York’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
By joining, you’ll represent your country, expand your artistic vision, and gain confidence as a performer—all while becoming part of a global community of passionate artists.
The performances themselves will take place inside The Secret Theatre, located within Secret Arts. This vibrant venue benefits the community, supports artists, and adds energy to one of New York’s most dynamic neighborhoods.
By joining, you’ll represent your country, expand your artistic vision, and gain confidence as a performer—all while becoming part of a global community of passionate artists.
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COMPETITION CATEGORIES
Instrumental Performance – Solo:
- Piano
- Strings (including harp)
- Winds
- Piano duet (four hands, one piano)
- Duets
- Small ensembles (3–5 performers)
- Folk instruments (including guitar)
- Instrumental ensembles
- Vocal (1–4 performers)
- Choir
- Dance
- Dance groups
- Circus arts
AGE CATEGORIES
- Junior (A): 7–11 years
- Middle (B): 12–16 years
- Master (C): 17–35 years
- Multi-genre & ensembles (D): 7 - 35 years
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COMPETITION ROUNDS
Round 1 – Preliminary
Submit a 10-minute video showcasing two works of contrasting styles.
Results of the preliminary round will be announced by December 31, 2025.
Participants selected for the Final Round will receive an official invitation by email.
PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
Submit a 10-minute video showcasing two works of contrasting styles.
Results of the preliminary round will be announced by December 31, 2025.
Participants selected for the Final Round will receive an official invitation by email.
PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS
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Submit your application by December 15, 2025: - Complete the online application form at www.nycompetitions.com.
- Attach the following materials:
- а brief biography
- а link to a 10-minute performance video
- Performance program for the preliminary and final rounds (include composers, titles, duration).
- а high-quality photo
- a passport scan (for identification)
- Proof of current or recent enrollment, or confirmation of completion, from the performing arts school, institution, or teacher representing the participant or group
All application materials must be submitted in English.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE FINAL ROUND
Age Groups A and B
Participants in Groups A and B must prepare a program that includes a minimum of three works representing contrasting styles:
- One virtuosic piece
- One cantilena-style piece (lyrical or expressive work)
- One piece representing the performer’s country of origin
Performance duration: up to 15 minutes
Age Groups C, D, and E
Participants in Groups C, D, and E must prepare three contrasting pieces or performances that demonstrate technical mastery, stylistic diversity, and artistic expression.
Performance duration: up to 25 minutes
- All performances must be memorized.
AWARDS
GRAND PRIX
The highest honor of the competition. Includes a trophy, a Grand Prix diploma, and a cash prize. The Grand Prix winner will also perform at the Gala Concert.
1ST PLACE WINNER
Receives a Cash prize and diploma; winners will also be invited to perform at the Gala Concert.
2 & 3 PLACES WINNERS
Receives a Cash Prize and Diploma.
Special Prize
Thanks to Kadisha Onalbayeva and The Gulf Coast Steinway Society Three Winners of The New York International Competition For Performance Arts (Solo Category) will be invited to perform at the Gulf Coast Steinway Music Competition XI Winner Concert at Weill Recital Hall at the Carnegie Hall NYC June 10, 2026.
🔗 Learn more about the event
NOTES
-The term "Winner" refers to any participant who has achieved a distinguished ranking in the competition.
-Teachers, accompanists, and ensemble leaders associated with winning participants will also receive official recognition in the form of diplomas or letters of appreciation.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
The competition’s international jury is composed of acclaimed professionals in the performing arts. Their evaluations are final and uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and high artistic standards.
Masterclasses will be led by the competition judges and will focus on:
- Developing performance skills
- Building psychological resilience for performers
Teachers accompanying participants will receive professional development certificates.
Details of the masterclasses will be shared and discussed during a Zoom meeting with participants.
- Developing performance skills
- Building psychological resilience for performers
Teachers accompanying participants will receive professional development certificates.
Details of the masterclasses will be shared and discussed during a Zoom meeting with participants.
Acoustic rehearsals are available the day before each performance.
Participants may bring their own accompanist or request one from the organizers.
For those requiring an accompanist, two rehearsals are provided:
1. 30-minute rehearsal in a dedicated rehearsal room
2. 10-minute acoustic session in the main concert hall
The cost of accompanist services for both rehearsals and the performance is $200 per participant.
For those requiring an accompanist, two rehearsals are provided:
1. 30-minute rehearsal in a dedicated rehearsal room
2. 10-minute acoustic session in the main concert hall
The cost of accompanist services for both rehearsals and the performance is $200 per participant.
Participants are responsible for their own visa, travel, lodging, insurance, meals, and local transportation.
Official invitation letters will be provided to support visa applications.
Official invitation letters will be provided to support visa applications.
Group Services
For participating groups, the organizers can assist with:
- Lodging arrangements
- Bus transportation
- Chaperones
- Tours of New York landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and more
Full details will be shared during the Zoom orientation with participants.
Media Coverage
The competition will be filmed, photographed, and streamed on YouTube and other platforms. Participation implies consent to media use. For participants under 18, parental consent forms will be provided.
For participating groups, the organizers can assist with:
- Lodging arrangements
- Bus transportation
- Chaperones
- Tours of New York landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and more
Full details will be shared during the Zoom orientation with participants.
Media Coverage
The competition will be filmed, photographed, and streamed on YouTube and other platforms. Participation implies consent to media use. For participants under 18, parental consent forms will be provided.
REGISTRATION FEES
U.S. Participants
— Soloists: 100 USD
— Ensembles: 70 USD (per person)
— Ensembles: 70 USD (per person)
International Participants
— Soloists: 170 USD
— Ensembles: 120 USD (per person)
— Ensembles: 120 USD (per person)
All payments are processed securely through Stripe or PayPal
Please note: Registration fees are non-refundable.
FINAL NOTE
The New York Competition of Performing Arts – 2026 is more than a contest — it’s a celebration of talent and artistry. By performing at the exciting new Secret Arts venue in Long Island City, you’ll:
- join a supportive arts community,
- connect with fellow performers from around the world
- take an important step forward in your artistic journey.
✨ Applications close December 1, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to perform in New York! ✨
We can’t wait to welcome you to this unforgettable experience!
Our Partners
If you are interested in becoming a partner or sponsor, please feel free to contact us.
Contact Us
Phone: +1 332 200 0912
Email: nycompetitions2026@gmail.com
10-10, 44 Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
Email: nycompetitions2026@gmail.com
10-10, 44 Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101
