Discover Classical’s Young Talent Search and Rising Stars Gala is the station’s annual spotlight on talented young classical musicians in our listening area. Applicants submit a solo performance, and through a blind audition, a group of 5-7 musicians are honored annually. Winners receive a prize package including an honorarium, gifts, an on-air interview on Discover Classical and a chance to perform at the Rising Stars Gala.
Discover Classical believes that in order to inspire and encourage young musicians, there must be initiatives which recognize and celebrate their accomplishments. Over the last 10 years, Discover Classical has honored almost 60 young musicians in southwest Ohio and Eastern Indiana. Through our broadcast outlets, as well as partnerships with the region’s youth orchestras and music teachers associations, applicants are asked to send in a 5 to 10 minute recording of their classical performance. A distinguished panel reviews each applicant and selects 5-7 honorees. The winners are then highlighted on air with their audition and an interview. While each honoree receives a prize package, each honoree also gets experience in talking with various media outlets, including feature articles in local print and electronic media outlets, as well as a public performance that’s broadcast at a later date.