Coltman Chamber Music Competition

Since 2010, Coltman Chamber Music Competition stands as one of the premier launchpads for extraordinary musical talent in the nation. Hosted annually by the Austin Chamber Music Center at the prestigious Butler School of Music at the University of Texas at Austin, this celebrated competition draws the country’s most exceptional young string, piano, woodwind, brass, and mixed ensembles. Grounded in a tradition of artistic excellence and rigorous performance standards, the Coltman Competition provides emerging musicians with expert commentary, direct industry mentorship, thousands of dollars in cash prizes, and high-visibility performance opportunities on radio broadcasts and concert stages. Beyond a mere contest, it is a crucible where the next generation of world-class chamber ensembles define their voices and step onto the global stage.

Welcome to the Coltman Competition!

The 14th Annual Coltman Competition will take place March 6 & 7, 2027 at The University of Texas at Austin Butler School of Music. Competition staff reserve the right to cancel or amend any or all of the competition.

2026 Coltman Competition Winners 2026 Coltman Competition Semi-Finalists 2026 Coltman Competition Judges

Want to stay updated on Coltman Competition details? Sign up for ACMC’s Coltman email list!

Important Dates

Monday, October 26, 2026	Online application opens
Friday, December 18, 2026	Submission deadline for all application materials for both the Junior and Senior Division Categories at 11:59 PM (CST). No application refunds will be given once a submission has been made.
January 25-29, 2027	Applicants notified of preliminary round results
Saturday, March 6, 2027	Live semi-final rounds
Sunday, March 7, 2027	Live final rounds

Start an Ensemble Application

Applications open on October 26, 2026.

Competition Prizes

$20,000 in cash prizes. More information on prizes will be posted on October 26, 2026.

Contact Information

coltman@austinchambermusic.org

Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities

Sponsorships Multiple sponsorship levels available

Advertising Place an ad in the competition program

Volunteering

In order for the competition to run smoothly, volunteers are needed on Saturday and Sunday. If you’re interested in volunteering opportunities, please contact us at coltman@austinchambermusic.org for more information.

Some of the duties will include: Contestant check-in at the registration desk, monitoring warm-up rooms, assisting judges, escorting contestants to and from performance areas, helping with awards ceremony, greeting and welcoming contestants as they enter the competition spaces, set up and tear down, etc.