The AYT competition is organized and sponsored by the DHAP and conducted by an advisory panel of musicians, educators and intellectuals. The mission of this organization is to encourage artistic expression of Armenian culture by showcasing the talents of young adults well-versed in the performing arts. In addition to appearing at Carnegie Hall, the finalists are granted honorary awards. This year’s event is dedicated to the 150th anniversaries of Komitas and Hovhannes Tumanyan.