MTNA's national competitions attract thousands of students each year. The path to national recognition starts here — at the New Mexico State Competitions administered by PMTNM.
The Music Teachers National Association Performance Competitions are the most recognized and respected student music competitions in the United States. Each year, students from across the country compete through a structured three-tier system.
Administered by PMTNM in New Mexico
The primary educational level. All eligible students begin here. State competitions are where teachers see their students perform under pressure and receive adjudication that informs future study.
Video Submission
State winners advance to MTNA's regional division competitions, evaluated by video. Division winners earn the right to compete nationally.
MTNA National Conference · April 2–6, 2027 · St. Louis, MO
Division winners compete live at the annual conference. National winners receive recognition, awards, and the distinction of being named among the finest young musicians in the country.
Important
Only students whose teachers are MTNA Active Members may enter MTNA Competitions. PMTNM membership (MTNA Active) is required to enter your students.
| Category | Levels |
|---|---|
| Piano | Junior · Senior · Young Artist |
| Piano Duet | Senior only |
| String | Junior · Senior · Young Artist |
| Woodwind | Junior · Senior · Young Artist |
| Brass | Senior · Young Artist (video + national live) |
| Voice | Senior · Young Artist (video + national live) |
| Chamber Music | String & Wind ensembles (video + national live) |
| Category | Levels |
|---|---|
| Composition | Elementary · Junior · Senior · Young Artist |
Composition winners have their works performed live at the MTNA National Conference.
Special Competition
MTNA–Stecher & Horowitz Two Piano Competition — premier partnership competition for two-piano teams.
PMTNM administers the New Mexico State Competitions each fall. State Competition results determine which students advance to the MTNA Division level.
Composition · Piano · Piano Duet · Strings · Woodwinds
Stecher & Horowitz Two Piano
Chamber Music · Brass · Voice
Exact state competition dates are announced by PMTNM. Check the announcements page or contact the State Competition Coordinator.
Competitions are not about winning — or at least, not only about winning. MTNA's stated purpose is "to provide educational experiences for students and teachers and to recognize exceptionally talented young artists."
Students who compete consistently report:
The state level is designed to be accessible to serious students at every level, not just the most advanced. It is the right entry point for any student whose teacher believes they're ready.
Ready to enter your students? You must be an active PMTNM / MTNA member.
Talk to your child's teacher about whether they're eligible for this year's competitions. Only PMTNM / MTNA member teachers can enter students.
Find an MTNA Member Teacher →