ROCKPORT — For over 50 years, Bay Chamber Concerts has awarded prizes to Maine students who have made a significant commitment to their musical studies. There are seven prizes of $1,000 in categories for soloists and jazz ensembles between the ages of 12 and 25. All instruments welcome.

Young Stars of Maine 2017 prizewinners have gone on to careers at the Metropolitan Opera as well as major symphonies and conservatories throughout the world. In addition to the prize monies, Young Stars are invited to perform for the public in a free concert scheduled for April 30.

The following are important dates for this year's program:

Application Deadline: Friday, March 24
Live Audition Date (by invitation only): Saturday, April 8
Young Stars of Maine Prize Winners Concert: Sunday, April 30, 4 p.m. at Rockport Opera House

Following are the prize categories and eligibility qualifications:

• The Eleanor Erdman and Diane Nixon Vocal Excellence Prize
Open to solo vocalists
Age minimum: 12 years old, Age maximum: 25 years old

• The A. H. Chatfield, Jr. Piano Prize
Open to solo pianists
Age minimum: 14 years old, Age maximum: 22 years old

• Summer Music Prize
Open to solo instrumentalists
Age minimum: 15 years old, Age maximum: 24 years old

• The Jean and Harvey Picker Senior Prize
Instrumental or vocal, solo
Age minimum: 18 years old, Age maximum: 22 years old

• The Elsie Bixler Junior Prize
Instrumental, solo
Age minimum: 12 years old, Age maximum: 17 years old

• Ezra Rachlin Prize for Excellence
Instrumental or vocal, solo
Age minimum: 16 years old, Age maximum: 25 years old

• The Nathan E. Corning Jazz Prize
Instrumental or vocal, solo or group
Age minimum: 15 years old, Age maximum: 23 years old

For 2017, Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School accepts applications for the Young Stars of Maine Prize Program with a post-mark deadline of March 24. Instructions and an application can be downloaded at baychamberconcerts.org or by calling 207-236-2823.