Solo Performer
of the Year
Solo Performer of the Year is a nationwide competition to discover the brightest musical talent in Scotland. It is open to all young musicians who go to school in Scotland, and you can enter whatever your age or standard. If you're interested in taking part, speak to your music teacher or instructor to find out more. The Solo Performer of the Year National Final will take place on Sunday 24 May 2026 in the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow.
WHO
can enter?
The competition is open to every school student in Scotland who sings or plays an instrument. There is no minimum age or standard.
HOW
does it work?
Regional
Competitions
Each local authority selects a regional finalist. The process of selecting finalists will be slightly different in each local authority. For example, you might run local heats in each secondary school and then have a regional heat to decide who will represent the local authority at the National Final.
A finalist will also be selected from Scotland's independent schools following their own competition.
The SYM
National Final
The finalists from each local authority and the independent schools will compete at the National Final.
In the final, you will be invited to perform a programme of your choice, lasting 6 to 7 minutes.
You can perform on your own or with an accompanist. You can choose to perform with the official accompanist we provide, or you can bring your own. If you require a different kind of accompaniment (e.g. a backing track) please let us know in advance so that we can be prepared.
A panel of judges will then decide who will be awarded the title of Solo Performer of the Year.
The finalists and their parent or carer will receive travel expenses and accommodation, arranged by SYM, if required. The final will be a national event and you will have to agree to being filmed, recorded, and photographed, and your image may be used in the press, on our website, social media and in other marketing materials. Please note that you can only compete in the National Final twice during your school years and you cannot compete again if you win the competition.
WHY
should I enter?
At Scottish Young Musicians, you will compete with some of the best young musicians in Scotland, for a panel of judges with an international reputation. It might push you outside your comfort zone, but don't let that put you off.
These competitions are a chance to develop your skills, get performance experience, grow in confidence, and meet other young people who are passionate about music. And you can even win some amazing career-changing prizes
HOW
do I enter?
If you are a young musician, speak to your music teacher or instructor to let them know you're interested in entering the Solo Performer of the Year competition. Your teacher can then contact the local authority Music Service Manager to get the details of how to enter.
If you attend an independent school please speak to your music teacher. Your teacher can email us at
STILL
not sure?
Read more about the 2024 final to get a taste of what to expect
INFORMATION
FOR SCHOOLS
We are offering schools the opportunity to host their own SYM competition
If you're a music teacher please email [email protected] for more information
Or complete this form to order your school trophies and certificates.
to the solo performer national final
May 24 2026
