Select Students Competition

The Select Students Competition is an opportunity for students grades 2-12 to experience competition in a welcoming, supportive environment.

If you have a hard-working, competition-minded student, this might be the event for them! This event is open to both members and non-members of MTNA/CSMTA and Hartford Chapter (to become a member click here). Non-members (and MTNA members who have paid dues after September 30, 2025) may register students but must add an extra $10 registration fee per student.

• Ages: Students in grades 2 through 12 (*proof is required, see below)
• Divisions: There are two divisions: School grades 2-6; school grades 7-12
• Date: May 2, 2026.
• Place: South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main Street, Manchester, CT
• Winners’ Recital: May 9, 2026 at South United Methodist Church, 1226 Main Street, Manchester, CT
• Registration Deadline: Postmarked no later than April 1, 2026
• Piano Only

Teachers: Please download both of these forms:

*In addition to the registration form and fees, students are also required to submit proof of their school grade.  This proof could be a letter from the school teacher or office, a copy of their report card, or some other form of dated document that includes the child’s name and grade.

ELIGIBILITY: Entrants must have studied with their teacher for at least 6 months prior to the audition. Students must be in Grades 2-12.  There is a limit of 10 students for each teacher.

Students who participate in the Audrey Thayer Piano Competition are NOT eligible to enter this event.

Requirements:  Students who are selected are expected to play at the Winners’ Recital.  Make sure you and the student are available for both dates, prior to registering.

What to play: Students play one selection, or they may play two pieces written by the same composer.  Students may not play transcriptions.  Please consult the sample repertoire for a general idea of the level of playing.  Judges select students from the competition to play in the Winners’ Recital.  

Note: Repertoire should be music in its original form.  Students must have a copy of the score for the judges.  That copy should be in line with all copyright laws.

• Grades 7-12: up to 8 minutes

Longer pieces will be allowed, although they may have to be cut off at the audition. If accepted by the judges the student will perform the piece in its entirety at the recital. Shorter pieces of the same set by the same composer may be combined if they fit the time requirements. The judges reserve the right to eliminate any movements or numbers from the recital. 

Format: Instead of placement results as in a traditional competition, students are awarded the honor of playing in the Winners’ Recital. Judges may select as many students as they feel are deserving to perform in the recital. 

Questions?  Please contact any of the Select Students Committee members: 

Irina Zayaruzny: irina88keys@gmail.com

Anne Cassarino: anne.cassarino@gmail.com

Ludmila Ozeryansky: ozeryan@sbcglobal.net