Thomas and Evon Cooper International Competition

Since 2010, the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, in partnership with the Cleveland Orchestra, has offered an international competition for young musicians.

The Thomas and Evon Cooper International Competition at Oberlin, sponsored by Thomas and Evon Cooper, alternates annually between piano and violin. Open to musicians between the ages of 13 and 18, the competition culminates in a final round at Severance Hall in Cleveland, where the top three competitors perform a full concerto with the incomparable orchestra. Over time, overall cash prizes have increased to $40,000, including a $20,000 first prize.