Presented by DFW Institute of Musical Advancement (DIMA Texas)
Benefiting Inspired Sounds – Global Access to Music Education


CRESCENDO: The Dallas Youth Music Competition is a professionally adjudicated music competition designed to recognize outstanding young musicians while providing meaningful performance opportunities, artistic feedback, and support for expanding access to music education through Inspired Sounds.

Age Divisions and Instruments

Age is determined as of October 17th, 2026.

  • Junior Division: Ages 7–9

  • Intermediate Division: Ages 10–12

  • Advanced Division: Ages 13–16

Students choose one instrument per entry. Students are only allowed to enter once per year. Repertoire must be between 3-5 minutes in length, one piece or a short set. Memorization is required.

  • Piano

  • Guitar (Classical or Acoustic)

  • Voice

  • Violin

  • Cello

Awards

Awards are given to First, Second, and Third place in each instrument and age division.

  • First Place will be invited to perform at Carnegie Hall on January 17th, 2027, with a waived participation fee of $280

  • Second Place will receive a $150 prize

  • Third Place will receive a $100 prize

Registration Fee

CRESCENDO requires a $150 registration fee per participant.

The fee includes:

  • Live performance in a professionally run competition

  • Adjudication by established artists and educators

  • Written evaluative feedback

  • Eligibility for category awards and Carnegie Hall debut invitation

  • Support of Inspired Sounds and access to music education initiatives

A portion of all competition proceeds directly supports Inspired Sounds, expanding access to high-quality music education for students in underserved communities.

Apply now!

Applications close October 14th, 2026.

We invite you to help make CRESCENDO an inspiring and memorable experience for young musicians by becoming a sponsor. Your support helps us provide meaningful performance opportunities, celebrate the dedication and achievements of emerging artists, and create an event that encourages students to continue pursuing excellence in music.

Sponsorship also supports Inspired Sounds - Global Access to Music Education, helping expand access to music education and opportunities for young musicians.

For inquiries regarding sponsorships, please contact us at crescendodallas@gmail.com. We thank you for your continued support of young people in the arts!

Q&A

Is this a competitive or educational event?

Both. CRESCENDO is designed as a serious competition with professional standards, while also providing meaningful feedback and growth opportunities for young musicians.

Are current DIMA students allowed to apply for CRESCENDO?

No. If you are a student currently working with a DIMA instructor, you are not allowed to participate in CRESCENDO. DIMA students will be invited on teacher recommendation to perform at Carnegie Hall, and must pay the participation fee.

How are winners selected?

Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges using a standardized rubric evaluating technique, musicality, interpretation, and stage presence, with age appropriate expectations.

How many winners are selected?

First, second, and third place winners are selected in each instrument and age division. 

What does “Carnegie Hall debut opportunity” mean?

First Place winners will be invited to perform in a curated debut concert at Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall on January 17 at 1:00 PM, presented by DIMA Texas. Participation is subject to repertoire approval and program requirements.

Is there an additional fee for the Carnegie Hall performance?

Yes. Participants who accept the Carnegie Hall performance invitation will be assessed a $280 participation fee.

This fee helps cover:

  • Venue and production costs

  • Required insurance and administrative expenses

  • Artist coordination and concert logistics

This fee applies only to invited performers and is separate from the competition participation fee.

When is the Carnegie Hall participation fee due?

The Carnegie Hall participation fee will be communicated and collected after competition results are announced, only from invited participants.

Does the Carnegie Hall fee include travel or lodging?

No. Travel, lodging, and personal expenses are the responsibility of the participant and family.

Can a winner decline the Carnegie Hall invitation?

Yes. Participation in the Carnegie Hall performance is optional. Declining the invitation does not affect the competition award.

How does this competition support Inspired Sounds?

A portion of all competition proceeds directly supports Inspired Sounds, expanding access to high quality music education for students in underserved communities.

Is this competition affiliated with Carnegie Hall?

The competition is presented by DIMA Texas. Carnegie Hall is the performance venue for the invited winners’ concert.

For more information, contact us at crescendodallas@gmail.com.