Is your child or teen passionate about music? Whether they’re just starting lessons or already jamming daily, music competitions can be a powerful motivator, helping students grow their skills, build confidence, and gain valuable performance experience.
Ontario is home to many youth-friendly competitions that welcome students of all levels and instruments. From friendly local festivals to more advanced showcases, there’s something for everyone! In this article, we’ll explore the best music competitions in Ontario for young musicians!
Piano Competitions
There are dozens of local and provincial-level piano festivals that give young players a chance to shine. Many are organized by age group or RCM level, so beginners can feel just as supported as more advanced students.
Preparing for a competition helps students set clear goals and stick to a consistent practice routine. It encourages attention to detail and musicianship while building comfort with performance. For many students, it’s a chance to feel proud and showcase their hard work in a new way.
Competitions to Explore
3. OMFA (Ontario Music Festivals Association)
6. Unionville Music Competition
Voice Competitions
Singing competitions include everything from classical and musical theatre to contemporary styles and original songs. Many are divided into age or genre categories, and some even offer group classes and duets.
Participating in a vocal competition helps students grow their stage presence, emotional expression, and confidence. Since singing is so personal, it also deepens the connection between performer and music—an experience that can be both empowering and inspiring.
Competitions to Explore
2. OMFA (Ontario Music Festivals Association)
3. Pickering GTA Music Festival
4. Burlington Symphony Vocal Competition
6. Honey Jam
7. Unionville Music Competition
Guitar Competitions
Whether your child plays classical guitar, acoustic fingerstyle, or electric, there are more and more festivals recognizing guitar as a serious performance instrument.
Competitions help guitarists go beyond noodling and riffing, encouraging them to fully prepare and polish songs. It sharpens technique, improves rhythm, and builds confidence with tone and musicality. It’s also a great reason to finish a full piece and share it with others.
Competitions to Explore
2. OMFA (Ontario Music Festivals Association)
Violin & String Competitions
String students have many opportunities to participate in competitions across Ontario—many of which are beautifully organized and supportive of younger players.
These events push students to refine tuning, tone, bowing, and expression in a structured way. Violinists in particular benefit from performing under pressure, which helps prepare them for auditions and ensemble work down the road. Plus, playing for a live judge often gives helpful, personalized feedback.
Competitions to Explore
2. OMFA (Ontario Music Festivals Association)
6. Unionville Music Competition
Drum & Percussion Competitions
While less common than other instruments, drum competitions are growing—and they’re a great way for percussion students to explore solo performance, especially if they’re used to being part of a band.
Preparing for a solo drum performance strengthens rhythm, control, and musicality. It’s also an opportunity to show off dynamics, tone shaping, and creative expression—reminding young players that drums are more than just loud: they’re powerful, nuanced instruments in their own right.
Competitions to Explore
1. OMFA (Ontario Music Festivals Association)
Composition & Songwriting Competitions
Many festivals now offer original composition or songwriting categories, including both notated and lyrical formats. These give creative students the chance to express their ideas and hear their music brought to life.
Songwriting competitions promote risk-taking and emotional honesty, while also teaching structure, phrasing, and musicianship. For many students, it’s a way to feel ownership over their work in a way that goes beyond playing someone else’s notes.
Competitions to Explore
2. Western Songwriting and Composition Competition
When to Sign Up
Most festivals open registration in the fall or early winter, with actual performances taking place between March and June. Some require live auditions or video submissions, so it’s a good idea to speak with your teacher early—usually by October or November—to plan ahead.
Why Competitions Matter
Competitions aren’t about winning. They’re about committing to something, growing through practice, and stepping into a challenge with courage. Students learn how to handle nerves, how to prepare under pressure, and how to recover from mistakes. And best of all, they gain a real sense of achievement and pride in their growth—something that stays with them long after the performance ends.
Closing Notes
Not sure where to begin? We’d be happy to help! Every student is different, and our teachers can help you find a competition that fits your child’s level, personality, and goals!
