The competition will be divided into two categories - a junior division for musicians under the age of 19 as of March 11, 2004 (born on or after March 11, 1985), and a senior division for musicians 19-25 as of March 11, 2004 (born on or after March 11, 1978 and before March 11, 1985). Instrumental categories for this competition include Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Classical Guitar, and Harp. Complete competition guidelines, as well as the list of required repertoire can be found in the February 2001 ASTA journal, and at: www.astaweb.com

Participants must be ASTA with NSOA members or be studying with current ASTA with NSOA members. Students may compete in their state of residence or in the state in which they are currently studying. Students may only compete in one, State Competition.

For students wishing to be eligible for the National Competition, it is essential that they prepare the required piece(s). It should be noted that students MAY compete in our State Competition using their own choice of repertoire. However, these students will NOT be eligible for the National Competition.

The State Competition will consist of an initial, screening round where all tapes will be reviewed. Up to five finalists will be chosen in each division. These finalists will then perform for the live, final round of the competition which will be held on Sat. November 1, 2003 in Lutz Hall on the Lebanon Valley College Campus.

All applications must include the following:
1. The PADESTA with PSOA Solo Competition Application form.
2. A nonrefundable application fee of $30 - check made out to PADESTA with PSOA.
3. The National Solo Competition Application form
4. A (refundable) National Application fee of $60 - check made out to ASTA with NSOA
5. Proof of age - copy of birth certificate, driver's license, etc.
6. High quality cassette tape or CD that includes all of the pieces to be used for the competition.

The application/tape/CD deadline is October 15, 2003.

Please send all application material to:
Dr. Hannes Dietrich
PADESTA with PSOA President and Solo Competition Chair
Department of Music
Lebanon Valley College
Annville, PA 17003
(717) 867-6281
dietrich@lvc.edu