The Bolz Young Artist Competition is open to
9th-12th grade Wisconsin students who play string, wind, brass, percussion instruments or piano. Two rounds of auditions culminate in a free concert in Overture Hall, in which the final four competitors are featured with John DeMain and the MSO. Wisconsin Young Artists Compete: The Final Forte is broadcast live on Wisconsin Public Radio and rebroadcast on Wisconsin Public Television. The two winners receive scholarships and the honor of performing again before their peers in the Spring Young People's Concert.

Pianist Hong-En Chen and violinist Leah Latorraca took top honors in the competition held Wed night in Overture Hall. Each received a $1,000 scholarship. Violinist Chauntee Ross and pianist Naomi Latorraca were awarded Honorable Mentions and each received a $500 scholarship. All four finalists performed with John DeMain and the MSO at the Spring Young People's Concert.