Young Musician Competition
Nairn Book and Arts Festival and the Rotary Club of Nairn have come up with the perfect opportunity to showcase the talents of our local young musicians at this year’s Festival.

Young Musician Competition, Nairn.
There are two categories, instrumental and vocal, for ages 8-18, and auditions will be held in late June before a panel of judges. The very best will be taking part in the Festival, with final judging taking place on Saturday 30 August.
Nairn has a lot of very talented young people and we want to give them the chance to shine through this competition. So don’t delay, enter today!
Download the entry form here
FAQs
ELIGIBILITY
Who can enter the competition?
The competition is open to young musicians aged 8 to 18.
Which instruments are eligible?
The competition is for solo instrumental and solo vocal.
Can I enter an ensemble?
This competition is for solo performers only; ensembles are not eligible.
Do I need to have reached a certain standard of performance to apply?
There is no specific performance standard required to apply.
Which genres of music are included in the criteria?
All genres of music are welcome.
Do I need to live in Nairn to participate?
Participants do not need to live in Nairn but must be available for auditions in June and the final judging event at the Festival's main venue, Nairn Community and Arts Centre, on Saturday 30th August.
APPLICATION & REGISTRATION
How do I apply?
Application forms can be downloaded at www.nairnfestival.co.uk/about/young-musician-competition and hard copies will be available from Nairn Community and Arts Centre. Please send your completed form via email to nairnfestivalassistant@gmail.com.
Is there an entry fee?
No, the competition is free to enter.
What is the deadline for applications?
The application deadline is 31 May 2025.
AUDITIONS
When and where will the first round of judging take place?
The first round of judging for successful applicants will take place in late June at a venue in Nairn. Details will be shared with successful applicants in due course.
When will I find out if I have been selected for the first round of judging?
We will contact you to let you know as soon as possible after the entry deadline.
Can I bring my own accompanist?
Yes, instrumental and vocal participants may bring their own accompanist. Please note that the competition will not provide an accompanist.
Will there be a piano available?
You may bring your own accompanist, but the competition will not provide one. A piano will be available for use at both venues.
Do I need to play from memory?
No
Can I use a backing track?
No
What happens if I am successful in the first round of judging in June?
Winners will be invited to perform at the Nairn Book & Arts Festival in a final showcase on Saturday 30 August at Nairn Community and Arts Centre.
Can I play the same music I played in the first round, in the final showcase?Competitors may perform the same pieces/songs in each and/or subsequent stages of the competition.
Will there be a prize for the final showcase winner?
Yes, winners will receive a prize - details will be confirmed soon.
Will the final showcase at the Nairn Book & Arts Festival be open to the public? Can my friends and family attend?
Yes, it will be open to the public.
JUDGING
Who will judge the competition?
The judging panel will include experienced musicians and industry professionals. Their names will be announced at a later date.
Will I receive feedback from the judges?
Participants will receive constructive feedback after their performances at both the first round of judging and at the final.
CHILD PROTECTION AND SAFEGUARDING
What measures are in place to ensure child safety?
The event will adhere to child protection guidelines. The first round of judging and the final festival showcase will have children’s parents/carers present and will also be supervised by DBS/PVG-checked staff. No child will be left unsupervised.
Can parents/guardians attend the performances?
Yes, parents or guardians are asked to accompany participants to the venue.
DATA PROTECTION & PRIVACY
How will my personal information be used?
Personal information provided during registration (such as name, age, and contact details) will be used solely for the purpose of organising the competition.
Will my personal information be shared with anyone?
No, your information will not be shared with third parties outside of the event organisers, except with your explicit consent.
Are photos or videos of participants taken during the event?
Photos and videos may be taken during the performances for promotional purposes (e.g., on social media or in festival materials). However, consent for this will be requested in your entry form. You can opt out if you’d prefer.
How is my data stored and protected?
We comply with all relevant data protection laws, including GDPR.
Can I request that my data be deleted?
Yes, you can request the deletion of your personal data after the event by contacting nairnfestivalassistant@gmail.com.
GENERAL INFORMATION
What should I wear for the audition?
There is no formal dress code, but participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes suitable for a performance.
What happens if I’m unable to attend the audition?
Unfortunately, we cannot offer alternative audition dates. Please ensure you are available on the specified dates.
How will I be informed about the results?
Results will be communicated in person at the end of the first round of judging and at the end of the final showcase performance preceded by some constructive feedback from the judges.
Who can I contact for further questions?
For more information, please contact Victoria Smithson at nairnfestivalassistant@gmail.com.