Competition FAQs
FAQs
How is this competition different from others?
When a person wins an Alexander & Buono Competition, they also receive ongoing career counseling of the finest kind. Each winner is eligible to receive up to a year of guidance that includes everything from help in making career choices that keep you moving from strength to strength, to recommendations on repertoire for both study and performance; advice on technique and interpretation; coaching, concert programming and planning; even tools for handling criticism as well as you do praise.
What’s more, our team of experts includes two Steinway Artists, a University Dean of Music Emeritus, graduates of Yale and Princeton Universities, The Juilliard School, and Salzburg’s Mozarteum.
Talent alone is not a guarantee of success. Time, planning, study, patience, and the strategic handling of every aspect of training are essential to building a career of both longevity and personal fulfillment.
That’s why for us a competition win is not the end—it’s just the beginning.
What is the time limit for each division?
There is no absolute time limit for the recording.
We recommend 25 minutes or less, as each application has to be reviewed by judges.
What are the repertoire requirements?
There are no specific requirements, as we want each applicant to present the work or works they believe best represent their artistry, just as you would do if you were performing in a live recital.
Is a movement of a larger composition acceptable?
Yes, participants can perform a movement of a sonata or a larger work.
Should I submit a video or audio recording?
Video. We only accept video recordings.
How should I dress for the video?
We suggest that you dress as formally as you can as if you were performing in a concert hall. Please don’t forget that your performance will be seen around the world, and potentially by artists and managers.
Do I have to submit an online application?
Yes. We only accept online applications.