State Chamber Music Competition

Application Process

ELIGIBILITY. Any high school string, woodwind, or brass small ensemble consisting of 3 to 10 members may apply. If chosen as a finalist the ensemble must also receive a division 1 rating at the current year’s region solo and ensemble contest. 

1. The application portal will be open from December 1st through February 4th.
2. The application fee is $150; an invoice will be emailed to the director.
3. Each applying ensemble is required to submit a video recording made during the current school year of the ensemble performing 8 to 10 minutes of music from any source. The video may not include any information to identify the school. Applying ensembles do not submit music scores. Each ensemble is limited to one submission.
4. Finalist ensembles will be notified after the application process closes and recordings are evaluated.
5. Apply Here

Competition Format

The finals of the 2026 UIL State Instrumental Chamber Music Competition will be held on Saturday, March 28 at the Jerry Fay Wilhelm Center for the Performing Arts in Bastrop.

RULES. Applying ensembles and finalist ensembles will follow the published rules of the state instrumental chamber music contest, including performance regulations. Any ensemble not meeting these requirements shall be subject to disqualification. Each festival ensemble will be assesed a registeration fee. 

PERFORMANCE REGULATIONS. Contest regulations as listed in C&CR Section 1108 Solo and Small Ensemble Contest shall apply, with the following exceptions: 

1. The finals will consist of two divisions: Strings & Winds
2. Each ensemble will be permitted to perform 15 to 20 minutes of music, with total time, including performance and entering/clearing the stage, not to exceed 25 minutes.  
3. Music by multiple composers and of contrasting styles (may be within the same piece) is encouraged. 
4. Each ensemble must provide three copyright compliant full scores of each selection, with measures numbered. 

ADJUDICATION. The state music office will assign two panels of nationally recognized adjudicators as follows: one panel to select the participating ensembles and one panel to adjudicate the finalist ensembles. 

CLINIC. Immediately following their performance each ensemble shall receive a clinic from a nationally recognized professional musician.

AWARDS. The following awards will be given:

1. Each member of the top three placing ensembles will receive draped gold (1st), silver (2nd), or bronze (3rd) medals. 
2. Each of the top three placing ensembles will receive a group award.
3. Each finalist ensemble not ranked in the top three will receive a group award. 

Adjudicators & Clinicians

Joe Baca
Paula Corley
Brandon Houghtalen
Franz Krager
Ryan Kelly
Joe Lulloff