The Yen Liang Young Artist Competition is an annual concerto competition presented by the Diablo Symphony Association, showcasing the depth of the young local talent in Contra Costa County and beyond. The competition is dedicated to the memory of Yen Liang (1908–2000), a noted artist, architect, and long time resident of Rossmoor who also played second violin in the Diablo Symphony for many years. The competition rotates every year between strings, winds / brass / percussion, and piano; the competition is open to string players in the 2023–2024 season.
Potential candidates are asked to play a string concerto of their own choosing. The first prize winner will receive a $1500 cash honorarium and the opportunity to perform the auditioned concerto with the Diablo Symphony Orchestra in two concerts in Walnut Creek (one at the Lesher Center for the Arts on March 3, 2024, and one at Rossmoor on a nearby date to be determined). The second-prize winner will receive a $750 cash honorarium.
Applicants to the 2023–2024 competition must have been born after April 1, 2000, and must submit applications to the competition (including the video recording of a memorized concerto of the applicant’s choice) by no later than December 23, 2023. For the application form, please click here. The final round of the competition takes place at 5 p.m. on January 7, 2024, at the Steinway Gallery, 1605 Bonanza Street, Walnut Creek.
For more information about the competition, please consult the competition rules. You may also contact Christine Hsia, competition coordinator, at christinehsia@gmail.com.