Does anyone have experience with classical piano in the YoungArts Competition? If I have the ability to complete say ABRSM 8 or RCM Grade 10, would I be at the level of someone who gets merit or honorable mention? Obviously, I know I am nowhere close to finalist level but I am just trying to see what a good goal would be.
You are best off to have this conversation with your teacher.
Rather than looking at ABRSM or RCM, I suggest looking at the piano audition requirements for major conservatories - Juilliard, Cleveland Institute of Music, Indiana, any of the other “top” music schools. This is a better indication of the abilities of top young pianists who might be competing in Young Arts than ABRSM or RCM curriculums. ABRSM and RCM “lists”, even at the final levels, do not reach a particularly high level of the advanced literature.