Auditions Process Expand Auditions Overview The audition process consists of three rounds: a preliminary video submission round, a live semi-final round, and a live final round. All applicants must apply through the Muvac audition platform. Preliminary Audition Does my video have to be recorded from a concert? No, by ‘live performance’ we simply mean that the recording is unedited and was recorded in a single take. Can I use audio instead of video recording? No How can I be sure that my application has been received? All applicants will receive a confirmation email upon submitting their application Every application is reviewed by multiple indipendent jury members Please note: it will not be possible to view the analytics for videos that have been uploaded to Muvac. Video views within Muvac will not count towards the view count on your chosen platform. Semi-Final Audition I am only available for one of the semi-final audition days; can I still apply? Yes. There is a field within the application form where you can specify your preferred semi final location, and advise of any times that you may be unavailable. Please note that while we endeavour to meet these requests, it may not be possible to accommodate everyone. Final Audition I am not available for the entire period of semi finals and finals; can I still apply? No, we require all finalists to be available for one of the live semi final auditions and subsequent interviews, and the Live Final at Wigmore Hall, London.
Instrumental Categories Expand I specialise in period performance, can I apply? We have had a couple of period ensembles apply in the past and, so long as you are entirely mobile and able to easily bring all your required instruments with you, then this is fine. As a soloist, unfortunately we do not have access to harpsichords or fortepiano in our audition venues. If you feel your application is still strong enough and that you would be able to provide your own continuo backing, then you are welcome to apply. Can I apply as a duo? YCAT does not accept applications from regular piano/instrumental duos e.g. violin & piano; these applicants should apply as individuals in the soloist category YCAT does accept mixed duo applicants providing that they can satisfy the entry requirements (including prior experience and repertoire) Piano duos must submit repertoire for four hands one piano (YCAT cannot provide two pianos at audition) Ensemble applicants may have 2-6 members. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions about completing your application as a duo.
References Expand Where should my references be sent? References must be uploaded to Muvac before submitting your application. You are required to submit TWO separate references, which must have been written within the last 12 months, and include the name and contact details of the referee, as well as their relationship to you. Duplicated references will not be accepted, and may result in your application being void. It is the applicant's responsibility to contact their referees and ensure they supply their references before the application deadline. PLEASE NOTE: Your application will only be reviewed if both references have been received.
Visas Expand Applicants must have the right to undertake regular paid performance work in the UK without needing individual work visas or permits, and you must be eligible to visit and undertake performances in the UK via the Permitted Paid Engagements route. You CAN apply if: You hold a UK/British passport You hold a passport from a non-visa-national country (e.g, EU/EEA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, USA, among others). You are currently on a UK student visa and already hold, or have received confirmed approval for, a UK Global Talent Visa or will be moving to the Graduate Route by 31st July 2026. You CANNOT apply if: You hold a passport from a visa-national country. You are on a UK Student Visa that extends beyond 31 July 2026 AND you are not transitioning to the Graduate Route or UK Global Talent Visa in 2026.