NSS Young Artist Auditions
Each February the North State Symphony, in partnership with the Chico Guild and the Redding League, invites Northern California music educators to encourage their students to participate in the annual Young Artist Auditions in voice, keyboard, and orchestral instruments.
Help develop the next generation of musicians! See the links below for details and an application.
The public is invited and encouraged to attend the auditions. Ample, free parking is available in nearby City of Chico and university lots.
Audition Date: February 8, 2026
Beginning at noon
Rowland Taylor Recital Hall
Performing Arts Center (Room 134)
California State University, Chico
Divisions:
- Junior/High School: Grades 6–12
- College/University: For aspiring musicians in higher education
First-place winners earn cash prizes and the opportunity to perform as soloists with the North State Symphony during the following season—an inspiring milestone for any young musician. All contestants receive a Certificate of Participation and two complimentary tickets for a North State Symphony concert.
First Prize Winners of 2025 Young Artist Auditions
JJ Tiefenbach, cello
High School Division
JJ, who lives in Redding, has studied with Michal Palzewicz and performed Elgar’s Cello Concerto in E Minor. JJ won a cash prize and will perform with the North State Symphony in our January 2026 concerts.
Erin Elizabeth Van Mol, vocal
College Division
Erin, a voice student from Redding and CSU Chico, performed Mozart’s “Batti, batti, o bel Masetto”. Erin is a student of Dara Scholz. She won a cash prize and will perform with the North State Symphony in our January 2026 concerts.
Second Prize Winners of 2025 Young Artists Auditions
Arianna Pandit, violin
High School Division
Arianna studies with Rebekah Van Tinteren and performed Beriot’s Concerto No. 9 in A Minor.
Gracie Benham, violin
College Division
Gracie, of Redding, studies with Rebekah Van Tinteren and performed Sarasate’s Zigeunerweisen.
