Blog

The Key Note: Conversations in Music

As far as Shannon Hesse is concerned, the best way to play piano is to perform with others. “It feels like we’re having a conversation,” said Hesse, a regular collaborative pianist for the Young Texas Artists Music Competition. “We can share ideas and play off of each other. That, to me, is far more rewarding … Read more
Two parents with teen children dressed for special event.

The Key Note: A Heart for Music

Longtime Young Texas Artists volunteer Craig Stephan describes his journey as a musician and his commitment to YTA.
Man in formal attire by piano

Where Are They Now? Petronel Malan

Petronel Malan, a multiple Grammy Award nominee and gold medalist of several international piano competitions, is Young Texas Artists’ 1998 Gold Medalist in Piano. She recently spoke with us about her career and her memories of competing with YTA. What are some of your favorite memories of competing with YTA? I remember that I had … Read more
Smiling woman

The Key Note: TMCO’s Visionary Conductor

One of the most important lessons Libi Lebel has learned since launching Texas Medical Center Orchestra (TMCO) in 2000 is the value of going after what you want. “Sometimes you have to open your own doors,” said Lebel, TMCO’s artistic director and winner of such honors as the Houston YWCA Outstanding Woman of the Arts … Read more
Woman in black holding conductor's baton.

Where Are They Now? Graeme Steele Johnson

Clarinetist Graeme Johnson spent a year reconstructing a piece no one had heard since 1897. His world premiere recording of Forgotten Sounds earned praise from The Washington Post and The New York Times. Discover the YTA alum behind this remarkable musical rediscovery.
Smiling young man holding clarinet.

Ray Benson: Distinctively Texas

When Young Texas Artists (YTA) holds its classical music competition finals on March 8, Texas music legend Ray Benson will be there to serve as master of ceremonies. Benson, a ten-time Grammy Award winner and founder of Western swing band Asleep at the Wheel, is helping YTA celebrate its 40th anniversary — he’ll also perform … Read more
Man with white beard, wearing cowboy hat

Apply Now for 2025 YTA Music Competition

The application period for the 2025 Young Texas Artists Music Competition continues through Dec. 31, 2024.
Woman wearing prize medal holding yellow roses and Texas flag poses with two men and a woman at classical music competition.

Video: Pianist James Dick

World-renowned pianist James Dick, founder of the Round Top Festival Institute, performs during the 2024 YTA Classic Cabaret celebration. 
Man plays piano for audience.

Make Your Reservations for YTA’s 40th Anniversary Party

Now is the time to make your reservations for Young Texas Artists’ (YTA’s) 40th anniversary party, “The Stars at Night.”
Couple dressed up for gala.

YTA’s 2024 Gold Medalist in Voice a Grammy Nominee

YTA’s 2024 Gold Medalist in Voice, soprano Krista Renée Pape. is now a Grammy Award nominee!
Woman in pink gown sings at Young Texas Artists Music Competition's Finalists Concert & Awards program.