How the High School Application Process Works

Exceptional young musicians from around the world are invited to apply for the prestigious High School Honors Performance Series. To be eligible, students must be in U.S. grades 9–12 (or the international equivalent) during the 2025–2026 school year. High school music program applicants are required to submit a complete online application, including all requested information and supporting materials, including an audition recording.

All required components must be received on or before the application deadline for an application to be considered by our Selection Board. Early submission of application materials enables our Selection Board to provide careful and thorough consideration.

Accepting applicants on an as needed basis for February Carnegie Hall and Royal Festival Hall Programs

The sooner you apply, the sooner you'll receive your decision email!

Step 1: Complete Online Enrollment

In order to be considered, you’ll need to complete the online application form and submit a $200 deposit (refundable, if not accepted) and a nonrefundable $49 application fee. If you received a Student ID with your invitation materials, please select ‘Apply with HPS Student ID’ and reference this ID when you start the application process.

If you aren’t selected as a Finalist, your $200 deposit will be refunded. However, if the application process is started and the required materials are not submitted by the deadline, or if you withdraw for any reason, this deposit will not be refunded. The $49 application fee is nonrefundable.

Once you've completed online enrollment and submitted your deposit and application fee, you'll gain access to your performer portal, where you can submit your Teacher Reference Form, Performing Biography, and Audition Recording(s).

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Step 2: Provide a Teacher Reference

You’ll need to provide the contact information for a music teacher who can answer specific questions about your application, such as verifying the contents of your portfolio. The teacher reference can be any music professional, such as a school teacher or private instructor, who is familiar with your abilities.

If you've received a nomination to apply, you’ll only need to confirm the contact information for the teacher who nominated you for the program.

Step 3: Complete the Performing Biography Form

You’ll be asked to provide more information about yourself and your musical background by completing the brief Performing Biography Form in the performer portal.

An overview of the questions:

  • Do you take private lessons? If yes, for how long and with whom?
  • What voice part(s) and/or instrument(s) do you sing/play proficiently?

Step 4: Submit Your Audio Recording(s)

A digital audition recording should be uploaded to accompany each application. View the Audition Guide for your instrument by clicking on the corresponding link below. Please review the requirements in your respective Audition Guide before completing and submitting your recording.

Notice: We regret to inform you that auditions for Piano, Guitar, and Harp are currently not being accepted. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to audition with other instruments.

Evaluation Process and Selection of Finalists

Applicants will receive an official confirmation email after their materials have been submitted. Official program communications will be sent to the email address(es) provided in the application.

The steps of the music program application review process:

  • Application Review: Once the application is complete, it will be evaluated by our Selection Board, which is composed of professional music adjudicators.
  • Notification of Results: Finalists will be notified by email approximately six weeks after applying. The email will include results: Finalist (selected to perform), Waitlisted (acceptance contingent on part availability), or Deferred (not accepted and not waitlisted).
  • Ensemble Placement: Ensemble decisions will be finalized and communicated via email. Accepted Finalists will be assigned to ensembles based on the recommendations of our Selection Board to ensure balance and high musical quality across all groups. While efforts will be made to accommodate preferences, specific ensemble placement cannot be guaranteed.
  • Rolling Admissions: Applications will continue to be accepted after the final deadline through our rolling admissions process. Applications will be accepted up to 60 days prior to domestic programs and 90 days before international programs. Please note that rolling auditions will only be considered based on remaining ensemble needs.
  • Preparation for Accepted Finalists: Finalists can expect to receive their sheet music and conductor’s rehearsal notes no later than 60 days prior to the start date of their program.
  • Replacement Policy: In the event of a Finalist canceling their participation, an applicant on the waitlist will be invited to fill the vacancy.