Encouraging excellence in the arts
Since 2004, SIYAO has provided the opportunity for young artists to compete in annual vocal and instrumental competitions in the St. Louis metro-east area.
Competitors receive feedback on their performance from music professionals and the chance to win generous monetary prizes ranging from $250 - $1000.
Each competition is limited to 30 participants. Competitors must be between the ages of twenty and thirty years of age on the date of the competition.
"Thank you very much for the opportunity to perform at the the 2018 competition! I had a great experience and enjoyed the performance."
~ Joanne Chang
2024 Competitions
Space is limited to 30 competitors in each competition. Register now to secure your place. Please visit our FAQ page for frequently asked questions.
2023 Results
The SIYAO Board of Directors would like to thank all 2023 contestants for a very successful competition.
The judges were most impressed with the extraordinary level of performance this year and wish to congratulate all participants, especially during the pandemic. They wish to encourage you to continue in your pursuit of instrumental artistry and musicianship.
Emily Damasco
Congratulations
2023 Vocal Winners!
1st Place:
Emily Damasco, Soprano, Curtis Institute of Music
2nd Place:
Yvette Keong, Soprano, Manhattan School of Music
Tied for 3rd Place:
Yixuan Li, Soprano, Mannes School Of Music
Kylie Kreucher, Soprano, Oberlin Conservatory
Honorable Mention:
Jorie Clark, Soprano, Millikin University
Yvette Keong
Kylie Kreucher
Jorie Clark
Yixuan Li
Trio Matisse
Nickolas Hamblin Benjamin Penzner Ariya Laothitipong
Congratulations
2023 Instrumental Winners!
1st Place
Trio Matisse, University of Michigan
Nickolas Hamblin, Clarinet
Benjamin Penzner, Viola
Ariya Laothitipong, Piano
2nd Place Tie
HaEun Yang, Piano, Eastman School of Music
Jonathon Gavin Nickell, Saxophone, University of Missouri, Kansas City
Honorable Mention
Aidan Ervin, Percussion, Truman State University
Zhengyi Huang, Piano, University of Michigan
Kayla Bryan, Violin, Cleveland Institute of Music
HaEun Yang
Jonathon Gavin Nickell
Aidan Ervin
Zhengyi Huang
Kayla Bryan
Competition Photos
Support SIYAO
Founded in 2003, SIYAO is a publicly funded organization and depends on the financial generosity of music lovers to provide these opportunities to young performers striving to refine their skills. Your contribution and support of our mission is greatly appreciated by the organization and by the competitors.
Donate Today!
Southern Illinois Young Artist Organization
© 2018