Celebrating 20 Years & 40 Competitions
Encouraging excellence in the arts
Since 2004, SIYAO has provided the opportunity for young artists to compete in annual vocal and instrumental competitions in the St. Louis metro-east area.
Competitors receive feedback on their performance from music professionals and the chance to win generous monetary prizes ranging from $250 - $1000 for the Senior Division. Junior Division I prizes range from $25 - $100 and Junior Division II range from $50 - $200.
Each competition is limited to 24 participants. Senior Division competitors must be between the ages of twenty and thirty years of age on the date of the competition. Junior Division competitors must be currently in grades 6-12.
"Thank you very much for the opportunity to perform at the the 2018 competition! I had a great experience and enjoyed the performance."
~ Joanne Chang
First Annual SIYAO Junior Instrumental Competition
We are pleased to announce the winners of our first annual Junior Instrumental competition.
Every competitor played beautifully. Special thanks to all the teachers of these fine contestants.
SIYAO Division I Grades 6-8 Results:
1st Place: Aaron Hong, Piano
2nd Place: Jemima Tzeng, Violin
3rd Place: Caroline Zhao, Violin
Honorable Mention:
Max Zvolensky, Violin
Charlie Monaco, Piano
SIYAO Division II Grades 9-12 Results:
1st Place: Andrew Su, Cello
2nd Place: Estelle Limbach, Piano
3rd Place: Zooey Chen, Piano
Honorable Mention:
Graham Pezza, Piano
Simon Van Engen, Piano
2026 Senior Division Registration will open January 2026
Sr. Instrumental Competition
Saturday March 14, 2026
Sr. Vocal Competition
Saturday April 11, 2026
Both competitions are open to competitors between 19 and 30 years of age and will be held in person at
First Presbyterian Church
3601 Ridgeview Road, Edwardsville IL 62025
Competition Photos
Support SIYAO
Founded in 2003, SIYAO is a publicly funded organization and depends on the financial generosity of music lovers to provide these opportunities to young performers striving to refine their skills. Your contribution and support of our mission is greatly appreciated by the organization and by the competitors.