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See the Rising Stars of Howard County’s artist community at our annual gala and vote on your favorite!

Each year, we choose up to 10 rising stars to compete for our $5,000 Rising Star Award. The competition is open to performers, both individuals and ensembles (up to four members), ages 18-35, who live, train, work or perform regularly in Howard County or have done so in the past. Be part of the excitement as our Celebration of the Arts audience votes on the winner — live, during the event!

Mark Edwards, Celebration of the Arts 2022 (photo by Katie Simmons-Barth)
Man in suit looking up stands center stage holding guitar against purple background.

How it Works

Each finalist will perform one piece at our annual benefit gala, the Celebration of the Arts in Howard County. Following the performances, the audience — including over 500 artists, arts patrons, community members, and business and political leaders — cast their votes for the winner of the $5,000 Rising Star Performing Artist Award.

Votes are tallied during the event and the award winner is announced on stage! Additional awards may be given based on the amount of funding raised from the event.

Past Rising Stars

2023

2021 – 2022

2016 – 2020

2011 – 2015

2006 – 2010

2003 – 2005