Young Artist Auditions

Empowering Youth

NSS Young Artist Auditions

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.

2026 Audition Dates Coming Soon!

Divisions Include:

  • Junior/High School: Grades 6–12
  • College/University: For aspiring musicians in higher education

First-place winners earn the opportunity to perform as soloists with the North State Symphony during the following season—an inspiring milestone for any young musician.

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.