The William C. Byrd Young Artist Competition is open to all artists who will be no more than 32 (35 for voice) years old on the date of the competition, with the exception of voice contestants, who can be up to 35 on the date of the competition.

Contestants cannot be represented by a manager or an agent.

Contestants should select any of the standard repertoire for their instrument and full orchestra. The recording submitted (DVD, CD or flash drive) for entrance must contain the complete work to be performed in the Competition.