Hammerstein International Youth Solo Contest Applications Now Open

The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center has opened registration for its sixth annual Hammerstein International Youth Solo Contest.

The competition is open to vocalists ages 6–18 of all nationalities and focuses on the lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II. Winners will receive a cash prize, a voice lesson with a Broadway teaching artist, and the opportunity to perform at the Hammerstein Museum gala on October 4 in Doylestown, Pennsylvania.

The contest aims to educate young performers about Hammerstein’s role in shaping the modern Broadway musical while supporting the organization’s efforts to expand a museum and theatre education center at Highland Farm, the former home of Hammerstein and his family. The property, located in Doylestown, was purchased by the nonprofit in December 2023 and is being developed as a cultural and educational site.

Hammerstein lived at Highland Farm for the final two decades of his life, where he collaborated with Richard Rodgers on works including The Sound of Music, Carousel, The King and I, Oklahoma!, and South Pacific. The site also holds significance as the place where Hammerstein mentored Stephen Sondheim.

Contest Details

The competition is open to singers in four categories: elementary school, middle school, high school, and a local division for residents of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The first round of finalists will be selected by a panel of musicians, performers, and music educators.

Finalists will be announced on August 4. The final round will be judged by industry professionals including Dr. Paul Wolf, Kathleen Wrinn, and Bob Marks. Winners in each category will receive prizes, with first-place winners also receiving a coaching session with a Broadway teaching artist and the opportunity to perform at the gala.