COMPETITION REGULATIONS
New York International 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.

Performances will take place at the exciting new Secret Arts Center in Long Island City.
Awards & Opportunities:
- Over $10,000 USD in total prizes
- Cash prizes, diplomas, and certificates for winners
- Masterclasses led by the competition judges
- A Gala Concert where selected participants will perform for a live audience
- Special Grand Prix Prize: Winners will perform at Carnegie Hall on June 10, 2026

HOW TO APPLY
Applications are open from October 15 to December 15, 2025, and must be submitted through our official website: www.nycompetitions.com.
To apply, please:
Complete the online application form.
Submit a 10-minute performance video showcasing your talent.
Await your invitation to perform live on the main stage of The Secret Arts Center in New York City.
Further details can be found below.

ABOUT THE COMPETITION
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.
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.

WHEN & WHERE

• Location: Secret Arts Center, 10-10 44th Avenue, Long Island City, NY, US
• Dates: March 22–26, 2026

COMPETITION CATEGORIES
Instrumental Performance – Solo:

• Piano
• Strings (including harp)
• Winds

Ensembles:

• Piano duet (four hands, one piano)
• Duets
• Small ensembles (3–5 performers)

Multi-Genre:

• Folk instruments (including guitar)
• Instrumental ensembles
• Vocal (1–4 performers)
• Choir
• Dance
• Dance groups
• Circus arts

AGE CATEGORIES
Participants’ age:
7 to 35 years old (as of December 31, 2026).

• Junior Group A: 7–11 years
• Middle Group B: 12–16 years
• Master Group C: 17–35 years
• Multi-genre and ensembles D: 7 to 35 years.

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
1. Submit your application by December 15, 2025.
2. Complete the online application form at www.nycompetitions.com.
3. Attach the following materials:
- A brief biography
- A link to a 10-minute performance video
- Performance program for the preliminary and final rounds (include composers, titles, and duration)
- A 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.
The application must be completed in English.

AWARDS AND PRIZES
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 a diploma.
Winners may also be invited to perform at the Gala Concert.
- 2nd Place Winner
Receives a cash prize and a diploma.
- 3rd Place Winner
Receives a cash prize and a diploma.

Special Prize
Thanks to Kadisha Onalbayeva and The Gulf Coast Steinway Society, three winners of the New York International Competition for Performing Arts (Solo Category) will be invited to perform at the Gulf Coast Steinway Music Competition XI Winners Concert at Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall, New York City, on June 10, 2026.

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.

JURY
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
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.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Rehearsals

• Acoustic rehearsals are available the day before each performance.

Accompanists

• 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.

Visas & Travel
- Participants are responsible for their own visa, travel, lodging, insurance, meals, and local transportation.
- Official invitation letters will be provided to support visa applications.

GROUP SERVICES & EXCURSIONS
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
International Participants

• Soloists: $170
• Ensembles: $120 (per person)

U.S. Participants

• Soloists: $100
• Ensembles: $70 (per person)

All payments are processed securely through Stripe or PayPal.
Please note: Registration fees are non-refundable.

FINAL NOTE
The New York Competition for 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 15, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to perform in New York! ✨
We can’t wait to welcome you to this unforgettable experience!