A longtime member of the Guild and supporter of the Orchestra, Mrs. McGehee is a past president of the Guild and Chairperson of the NMSO Board of Trustees for the 2000-2001 season. Mrs. McGehee had spent 15 years serving as a judge for the state Music Teachers' Association when she conceived the idea for the contest. She recognized the wealth of talent in New Mexico and felt that these youngsters deserved opportunities for public performance and recognition. Working with Paul Bunker, Executive Director of NMSO at that time, the two developed the competition. The format follows one used by orchestras nationwide.
Entries are limited to state residents.
McGehee says that the training of the students is a tribute to New Mexico piano teachers. Piano teachers submit applicants' names and hard work begins in earnest several months before the event. The contestants memorize one movement of a piano concerto, preferably an allegro movement, or a concert piece with orchestra. Time limit is not to exceed 15 minutes. The first 24 qualified applicants will be accepted.