General FAQs
How big is a chamber group?
Chamber music ensembles will consist of two or more performers. Instruments may be strings, winds, brass or piano in any combination.
What do I prepare for the application recording?
Chamber Music Weekend:
Individual Submissions: Prepare and record (audio or video) a two or three octave scale of your choice and 2 minutes of a solo. Selections need to be from the classical instrumental music repertoire.
Ensemble Submissions: Prepare and record (audio or video) 3-5 minutes of a piece your ensemble is working on. Selections need to be from the classical instrumental music repertoire; no arrangements of pop tunes. If applicable, feel free to record and submit your group’s performance at the Regional SJMEA Solo and Ensemble event.
Chamber Music Competition: Ensembles should record (audio or video) 5-7 minutes of a piece from the classical music repertoire.
Tips for preparing an audio or video sample
State your name, age and the title of the piece that you will be performing. Find a quiet place to record. If submitting a video, please make sure your entire upper body is visible. For string players, make sure your bow hand is still visible when you are playing at the tip.
What if the registration fee is out of reach for my family?
Please apply anyway! BCMS believes in music for young people and runs the Harmony Music Festival on a ‘pay what you can system’. We believe that music programs ought to be available to all young people who are inspired to play.
Can I participate for one day only?
We require that our students participate for the entire weekend as the focus is group dynamics, growing ensemble skills, and working collaboratively.
Is there housing available if I’m coming from out of town?
We may be able to find housing if needed. Contact us about this.
When will I receive my music for the Chamber Music Weekend?
If you are accepted into the program you will receive music by March 20th. Pre-formed groups applying to the weekend with a piece they wish to work on during the festival will receive confirmation of their repertoire choice. A recording will be sent to you to aid in learning the music, studying the score and how your part fits in, in preparation for a great weekend. This music should be pre-learned and you should be as ready as possible to rehearse at the beginning of the festival!
Additional Competition FAQs
Do you have to participate in the March weekend event to qualify for the competition in May?
No, any ensemble is eligible to submit a recording to be considered for the May 2nd playoffs. Ensembles who participate in the April 18-19 weekend will be able to use the recording from their concert as their submission for the competition.
How long will the live competition be?
Allotted playing time for the live competition will be approximately 10-12 minutes per group.
Can students participate in more than one group?
Yes students may compete with more than one group.
How will winners be selected?
A screening panel of BCMS artists will review submissions and choose the entries to be invited to compete in a live adjudicated competition which will take place at Whatcom Community College on May 2nd, 2026 between 10am and 2pm. The competition culminates with a live finalists concert in Whatcom Community College’s Heiner Hall at 4pm on May 2nd.