In most years a competition is held for students enrolled in the Performance Studies program to perform an instrumental concerto or concerted vocal composition with the Dickinson Orchestra at a public concert. This competition is administered by the Music Director of the Dickinson Orchestra, Professor Robert Pound, and the panel of judges is comprised of professional musicians not directly affiliated with the college.
To participate in the competition, a student must complete an application which must include the signature of his/her current Performance-Studies instructor and the collaborative pianist. Auditions are heard by the board of judges, and the winner is announced. Instrumentalists and vocalists are equally encouraged to compete in the Concerto Competition.