Rules & Categories

The Alabama Cello Competition comprise four distinct categories determined by the participant’s age as of November 10th, 2023. Individuals who have previously won the top prize (or shared it) are ineligible to rejoin the same category during subsequent Alabama Cello Competitions. Participants have the option to compete in an age group higher than their own, but they must adhere to the prescribed repertoire for their chosen division.

1. Pre-High School Division: Cellists aged 14 or younger.

2. High School Division: Cellists aged 15 to 18, who have not yet graduated from high school.

Preliminary Round

All competitors will undergo a preliminary audition on the afternoon of Friday, November 1st, 2024, without the piano accompaniment. Constructive written feedback will be given to all performers in the preliminary round.

Following the preliminary round, up to 6 semi-finalists will be chosen in each division to perform in the Competition Semi-Finals on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. Following the semi finals, up to three finalists will be chosen in each division to perform in the Competition Finals on Sunday, November 3rd, 2024. The Amateur and Junior category finals will occur in the morning, while the Junior category will take place in the afternoon as part of the main event.

Note that memorization is only obligatory as indicated in the provided repertoire lists.

Any disrespectful or abusive behavior towards staff pianists or jurors by contestants, their instructors, or parents may lead to disqualification from the competition. Finalists will rehearse with their pianists independently, without the presence of teachers, parents, friends, or other family members.

The competitions in any of the four divisions may be canceled if there are an insufficient number of applicants for a meaningful competition. In such a scenario, entrants can choose to participate in the un- competition on Friday or receive a refund of their entry fees.

In the event of co-prize winners, the prize money for those winners will be adjusted. For instance, if co- first prize winners are selected, they will share the prize money allocated for the 1st and 2nd prizes in their respective divisions.

The Alabama Cello Competition and the Cellobration will not assume any tax responsibilities associated with prize winnings.

Competition Prizes

With the aim of supporting young cellists in their musical pursuits and respecting the wishes of prize sponsors, all financial awards are designated for use as scholarships for summer music camps or collegiate studies. The jury retains the right to grant only a portion of these prizes, and not all prizes are guaranteed to be conferred.