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Join us to Toast Chicago’s Emerging Artists
Join us for Cedille Records’ Emerging Artist Competition Finals on Sunday, May 18 at 1pm, and witness the next generation of classical music stars! This thrilling event showcases outstanding young musicians competing for the opportunity to make their debut professional audio recording — a crucial step in furthering a career.
This is Cedille’s second Emerging Artist Competition, again sponsored by the Zell Family Foundation. The winner of the inaugural competition in 2021, saxophonist Julian Velasco, remarked about the experience of making his first recording:
This is the stepping stone towards the next phase of [my] career. And to be able to have something that I can use as not only a statement of my own artistic vision, but also as a way of connecting with other people … This is the beginning of a new era of being able to share my music.
In this year’s competition, seven semifinalists have been selected to compete. Up to four will continue to the Final round on Sunday, May 18 at 1 pm.
The are free and open to the public, offering a front-row seat to incredible performances by top-tier emerging artists. Join us after the event to toast the winner at a special reception (approximately 4pm). RSVP to reserve your spot today.
Can’t make it in person? Tune in to our live stream and experience the excitement from anywhere. Don’t miss this chance to support rising talent and be part of an unforgettable musical journey!
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In celebration of violinist Karisa Chiu‘s recording debut titled HOME (9/12/25 release) a playlist of first featured appearances on Cedille by Chicago solo performers, ensembles, and conductors (presented in order of release from newest to oldest). We’ll add tracks from HOME on its release day.
Enjoy 25% off Cedille’s Weekly Featured Release.