Donna Turner Smith

Established in 1987, the Donna Turner Smith Memorial Endowment was created to foster artistic excellence among music students whose talent and commitment reflect the high standards of Donna Turner Smith.

The competition includes prizes not only for pianists, but also for cellists in memory of longtime University of Oklahoma cello professor, Marjory Cornelius.

The goal of the competition is to assist promising young artists in piano and cello to pursue careers in performing and teaching.

The Competitions are open to all pianists and cellists currently enrolled at OU, as well as pianists and cellists who will be full-time students at the University of Oklahoma School of Music in the Spring of 2024.

Contestants are required to perform at least two contrasting works of ten to twenty minutes in total length. Contestants may include single movements of larger works. Cellists are encouraged to program a sonata. Programs over 20 minutes will be cut at the judges' discretion. Repertoire changes cannot be made after submitting the application.

Winners will be announced at a reception following the competition. The decisions of the judges are final.

For more information, cello students should contact Jonathan Ruck and piano students should contact Dr. Jeongwon Ham.

Cello Application Deadline: Saturday, February 10, 2024

Cello Competition: Saturday, February 24, 2024 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm, Pitman Recital Hall, CMC

Piano Application Deadline: Monday, February 12, 2024

Piano Competition: Friday, March 1, 2024 - All day (9:00am start), Sharp Concert Hall, CMC

Applications have closed for the 2024 Cello and Piano competitions.