Our list of competitions, awards, and calls for scores of interest to current and prospective members of the Walden community.

The Walden School in no way endorses these opportunities above others that may not appear, nor does it claim to have achieved a comprehensive listing. If you feel there is an opportunity that we have omitted from our list, we encourage you to contact us. We also encourage you to check out The Composer’s Site, which maintains extensive and up-to-date opportunity listings.

You can search for a particular month to bring up a list of opportunities with deadlines in that month: for example, “March” will bring up all opportunities with March deadlines. Also, you can search “free” for a list of opportunities without an application fee.

Name of opportunity
Website
Details
Eligibility
How often it's offered
Deadline month
Application fee
Academia Musica International Composer Prizehttps://www.academia-musica.at/Composers are invited to submit works in four different categories. Composers that receive high scores receive medal and diploma, with highest scored composer in each winning 300 euro. AnyoneAnnuallyFebruary50 Euro
Amaranth Quartet: Call for Scoreshttp://www.amaranthquartet.com/call-for-scores/Four finalists will receive: 2 workshop sessions with Amaranth Quartet, a recording of the final session, and one private composition coaching with composer D. Riley Nicholson. After the workshop sessions, one composer will be awarded $500 and have their piece premiered on Amaranth's spring season.The chosen composer will be awarded $500.Must be 16-24 years oldAnnuallyDecemberFree
American Composers Forum Programshttps://composersforum.org/programs/ACF has a variety of opportunities for composers at various stages of their careersVariesSee websiteVariesSee website
ACF Philadelphia Chapter Young Composers Competitionhttp://www.acfphiladelphia.org/programs/programs/scholarship.htmlOne $500 scholarshipMust be a student in the ACF Philadelphia service area (Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Southern New Jersey) intending to major in music after high schoolAnnuallySee websiteSee website
American Composers Forum (ACF) NextNotes High School Composition Awardshttps://composersforum.org/education/nextnotes/Six winners receive mentorship from professional composers & musicians at a two-day workshop; paid travel and room/board for the workshop; a public concert of the winning works; a $1,000 scholarship ti be used for composition studies; a recording of their concert; and may be eligible for up to $500 in "bring it home" funds to share their work in their hometown. Winners also receive free Finale software. Up to 30 applicants will be chosen for Honorable Mention and receive written feedback on their submissions. ALL entrants deemd eligible applicants receive a free ACF student membership and 1-year subscription to Noteflight Premium.Students in grades 9-12.AnnuallyJanuaryFree
American Modern Ensemble Composition Competitionhttp://americanmodernensemble.org/composition-competition/Winning pieces are performed by the ensemble in New York City.Three categories:
1. ages 22 and under;
2. ages 18-35;
3. all ages.
All composers must be North, Central, or South American residents.		AnnuallyApril?
American Prizehttp://www.theamericanprize.org/composition.htmlThe American Prize in Composition recognizes and rewards the best composers in America of works for orchestra, chorus, concert band, chamber ensemble, pops, or theater music (opera-musical theater, theater, film, dance) that have been read or publicly performed.Separate awards for student and professional composersAnnuallyFebruary (with final deadline in April)$45
Arizona Pro Arte Call for Scoreshttp://www.azproarte.com/call-for-scores/The winner will receive a performance of his or her work by Arizona Pro Arte with the possibility of professional recording.AnyoneAnnuallyAprilFree
ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awardhttps://ascapfoundation.org/ascapfoundation/programs/awards/young-composer-awardsThe ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards (the “Award”) honors the late Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and The ASCAP Foundation’s former president Morton Gould’s lifelong commitment to encouraging young creators. Open to composers of original, classical concert music, the Award encourages developing music creators during the earliest stages of their careers.The Award is open to young composers (each, an “Entrant”) who have not reached their 30th birthday by December 31, 2017. Entrants must also be, at the time of entry, a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or enrolled student with a valid and current U.S. student visa. Entrants under 18 may apply with parental consent.AnnuallyThe “Application Period” begins on December 1, 2017, and ends at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on February 15, 2018. Hard copy materials must be postmarked no later than February 1, 2018.See website
ASCAP Int'l Songwriting Competitionhttps://songwritingcompetition.com/The International Songwriting Competition (ISC) is an annual song contest whose mission is to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established songwriters to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena.Anyone - various categoriesAnnuallyThe Extended Deadline is November 5, 2018.$35 per song or category
ASCAP/SEAMUS Student Composer Commissioning Programhttps://www.seamusonline.org/ascapseamus/First prize winner receives $1250 for the commission of a new electro-acoustic work, performance at the SEAMUS Nat'l Conference, and a recording on SEAMUS Compact Disc Series. Second prize winner receives $750 for the commission of a new electro-acoustic work and performance at the SEAMUS Nat'l Conference.Must be a student member of SEAMUS AND either currently enrolled in an academic program in the USA (high school through doctoral studies) or a US citizen studying abroad. The submitted work must have been completed while the applicant was a student, and the applicant must have student status at the time the work is submitted to the competition.AnnuallyOctoberFree
Astoria Choir Call for Scoreshttps://sites.google.com/astoriachoir.org/home/call-for-scores$250 cash prize and performances/recording by the choir for each selected work.Composers must live or be matriculated at a college in New York, New Jersey, or ConnecticutAnnuallyOctober$10
Baltimore Composers Forum Call for Scoreshttp://baltimorecomposersforum.com/2018-call-for-scoresSelected works will be performed by the L'Abri Trio.Must be a member of the Baltimore Composers Forum and resident of greater Baltimore/Washington D.C. regionAnnuallySeptemberFree
Barlow Prize Competitionhttp://barlow.byu.edu/prize-applications-guidelines/The winning composer will receive a $12,000 commission to compose a major new work, performed by a consortium of musicians.Anyone.AnnuallyJuneFree
BMI Student Composer Awardshttp://bmifoundation.org/programs/info/bmi_student_composer_awardsPrizes ranging from $500 to $5000 for instrumental, vocal, or electronic compositions.Must be a citizen of a country in the Western Hemisphere. Currently studying music, either in an educational institution or privately. Under the age of 28 as of time of submission. Has not won a BMI Student Composer Award more than two times (Honorable Mention excluded)AnnuallyFebruaryFree
BMI Pete Carpenter Fellowshiphttps://bmifoundation.org/programs/info/pete_carpenter_fellowshipResidency for aspiring film, television, and video game composers. Awards $2,000 stipend for four to five weeks of intensive, in-studio mentorship with established composers in Los Angeles, and also offers the opportunity to consult with other distinguished leaders in the entertainment industry. At least 21 years old. Pursuing a career in TV, film, and/or video game composition. Must be a US Citizen or resident with a valid visa or green card, and eligible for employment during the residency period.AnnuallySee websiteSee website
Bowling Green State University (BGSU) New Music Festival Call-For-Scoreshttps://www.bgsu.edu/musical-arts/maccm/call.html?fbclid=IwAR2dl-FDK_6J59Gw-ZzyVw7kbSg29NxxYDXPW_iQsi8zNDyCqVx46DBnR24The MidAmerican Center for Contemporary Music at BGSU calls for works to be performed on the 40th Annual Bowling Green New Music Festival. The festival will feature the music of guest composer Evan Ziporyn and others, performed by BGSU faculty, students and featured guest ensemble New Music Detroit. Composers are offered a $200 honorarium to offset travel costs to attend the festival.Composers of any age, nationality or institutional affiliation, except those currently enrolled at or employed by Bowling Green State University, are eligible to submit scores.AnnuallyMarchFree
Brooklyn Youth Chorus Men's Ensemble Composer Competitionhttps://mailchi.mp/brooklynyouthchorus/announcing-2019-20-brooklyn-youth-chorus-mens-ensemble-composer-competition-1161505World premiere performance of new work for Brooklyn Youth Chorus Men's Ensemble, along with a recording of work and a $500 prize.AnyoneAnnuallyNovemberFree
Cambridge Chamber Singers Composition Competitionhttp://www.cambridgemadrigals.org/compcomp.html$700 and two performances of a 3-6 minute work for mixed choir.AnyoneAnnuallyOctoberFree
Central European String Quartet International Composition Competitionhttps://www.centraleuropeanstringquartet.com/international-composition-competition.htmlIn addition to monetary prizes, the 1st prize winning piece will be premiered and performed three times by the Central European String Quartet in the 2020/21 seasonAnyoneAnnuallyApril40 Euro per composition
Centre International Nadia et Lili Boulanger Scholarshipshttp://www.cnlb.fr/enb/bourses/acc_bourses.htmlOne scholarship each per year for a performer, composer, and musicologist, adapted to the needs of each candidate.Candidates must be at least 20 years old and at most 32 years old by the deadline, and must pursue their studies in France.AnnuallyJuneFree
The Chelsea Symphony Composition Competitionhttps://chelseasymphony.org/tcs-2018-2019-composition-competition?fbclid=IwAR0ToH1aFxhYHlR9SH_vNBw_1OpaMHJivE4uTQG8x8R-DlnulhdPbaPTpdwEarly-career composers are invited to submit a previously unperformed work of 5-12 minutes to be performed and recorded by The Chelsea Symphony. Winners will receive a $250 honorarium.Applicants must reside in the United States and be in the early stages of their compositional careers.AnnuallyJanuaryFree
The Choral Project's Rachel Moore Composition Contesthttps://www.choralproject.org/rachel-moore-composition-competition/High school and undergraduate students are invited to submit original choral works. First prize is $1,500, a live performance and recording, and possible publication with Santa Barbara Music Publishing. 2nd prize is $750; 3rd prize is $500.Open to High School (grades 9-12) and undergraduate students of any nationality.AnnuallyMarch$20 per entry
Chorosynthesis Call for Scoreshttp://chorosynthesis.org/call-for-submissions/Performances by the Chorosynthesis Singers ensemble.AnyoneRollingRollingFree
https://www.taukay.it/data1/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=911:concorso-2020-eng&catid=80&lang=en&Itemid=561https://www.taukay.it/data1/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=868&Itemid=539&lang=enCash prizes between 200-1000 Euros, and public performances and recordings of the winning worksAnyoneAnnuallyMarch35 Euros
Claremont Chorale Composition Competitionhttps://www.claremontchorale.org/composition-contestThe Claremont Chorale, a 60-voice volunteer SATB chorus, is holding a composition contest for an original work to be premiered in Spring 2021. In addition to performance, winner is awarded prize of US$1,250.00.AnyoneAnnuallySeptember$25
ClefWorks Composition Competitionhttps://clefworks.org/composition-competition/Winner receives $1,000 and performance by the Catalyst String QuartetAnyoneAnnuallySee website$30
Community Music Center of Boston Young Composers Festivalhttps://cmcb.org/events/young-composers-festival-2019/2-day long program of workshops, panel discussions and concerts by and for students from elementary school to college. Students work alongside professional composers and performers to create, perform and enjoy contemporary music. Open to pre-college composers.AnnuallyNo sign-up requiredFree
Composers & Schools in Concert: Composer Commissions and Workshopshttp://www.composersandschools.com/our-programs/Commissions for professional composers to write pieces for high-school students; opportunities to develop music-creation workshops for students.Professional composersRollingRollingFree
Composers, Inc. Ettelson Awardhttp://composersinc.org/?page_id=29$1000 award and a performance by Composers Inc. during their concert season in Berkeley. Citizens or permanent residents of the United StatesAnnuallyJanuary$25/score
The Composer's Site Calls for Submissions Listhttp://www.composerssite.com/category/opportunity-type/calls-submissionsExtensive list of regularly updated Calls for Scores and other composer opportunitiesVariesRollingVariesVaries
Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra Call for Scoreshttps://contracostachamberorchestra.org/2018-19-call-for-scores/CCCO seeks new works for chamber orchestra to be performed thrice on the following season. Winner receives $500 honorarium and travel expenses to attend performances.Must be currently residing in US.AnnuallyOctober$20 for first score / $10 for additional submissions
Delta Omicron Composition Competitionhttps://www.delta-omicron.org/events/composition-competitionDelta Omicron seeks works for male voice & piano of 7-15 minutes in length, to be performed at the 2021 Delta Omicron International Fraternity Conference. Winning composer will receive $1,000.All composers of college-age or older. Submitted works must not have been previously commissioned, published, or publicly performed.AnnuallyMarch$25
Downbeat Student Music Awardshttp://downbeat.com/site/page/2019-downbeat-student-music-awardsThe award categories include various genres and styles, including jazz, blues/pop/rock, Latin, and original compositions for small and large ensembles; there are also awards for sound engineering.Separate awards for students in middle school, high school, and college. Students may not be enrolled in full-time professional work.AnnuallyDecemberFree
Earplay Composers Competitionhttp://www.earplay.org/www/competition.php$1000 cash prize and a performance by Earplay in their next season, for compositions for 1-6 players, with or without electronics.AnyoneAnnuallyMarch$26/score
Ecce Ensemble Call for Scoreshttps://www.eccearts.com/etchings/#/new-page-2/Premieres of the winning work by the Ecce Ensemble.AnyoneAnnuallyJanuary$25 early deadline/ $35 Feb deadline
Encore Wind Ensemble Charles Olson Young Composers Contesthttps://encorewinds.com/contestapplicationThe winning composition will receive a $1,000 cash award with a public performance and compact disc recording by the Encore Wind Ensemble.Composers must be between the ages of 15 and 22.AnnuallyMay$25
Epic Music Inspireshttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPgUa3BS3m59pnjR37Ieiiw/aboutAny composer can submit works to epicmusicinspires@gmail.com to be promoted on the Epic Music Inspires YouTube channel. Composers retain all rights to their work.AnyoneOngoingOngoingFree
Face the Music Composer Labhttp://www.kaufmanmusiccenter.org/ftm/composition/Readings, rehearsals, recordings, and commissions for composition students. Students are encouraged to submit works for orchestra, jazz band, string quartet, and mixed chamber ensember, and will be asked to play in at least one Face the Music piece during the season.Composers under college age, and studying a musical instrument.AnnuallyMay$40
Luna Composition Labhttp://www.kaufmanmusiccenter.org/ftm/luna-lab/Yearlong program in which young composers write a piece to be performed at the end of the program. Includes 1:1 mentorship and bimonthly lessons with an established female composer, performance opportunity as part of the Face the Music season, recording of their work, and networking opportunities.Any composer eighth grade to rising college freshman who identifies as female or gender non-conforming.AnnuallySeptember$15 application fee; $600 program fee. Scholarships available.
http://www.florencechoirfestival.com/MORRICONE_general-information.phphttp://www.florencechoirfestival.com/MORRICONE_general-information.phpFirst prize: 2000 Euros cash, publication of the work and its premiere during the festival; second prize: 1000 Euros; third prize: 750 Euros.AnyoneAnnuallyMarch75 Euros
Florence String Quartet Call for Scoreshttp://www.callforscores.com/Cash prizes up to 1000 Euros, performances and recordings of the selected works, and publication by Sconfinarte Editions.AnyoneAnnuallyAugust75 Euros; 25 per additional submission
The Flute New Music Consortium Composition Competitionhttp://www.flutenewmusicconsortium.com/2020-composition-competition.htmlCall for scores for solo flute, flute/piano, and/or flute/electronics works. Winning composers receive a cash prize, one or more performances, and a live recording from one or more of the performances.
Winning scores will be provided to current FNMC Commissioning and Performing Level members. 		AnyoneAnnuallyJune, July, or August, depending on instrumentation$15 per work submitted
Friends of the Brandenburg Symphony Composition Competitionhttp://www.fbsym.de/biennale/7th-brandenburg-biennial/Performance by the Brandenberg Symphony OrchestraAnyoneBienniallyMay10 Euros (20 Euros if you want your scores back)
Fromm Commission Granthttps://frommfoundation.fas.harvard.edu/news/2017-fromm-commission-application$12,000 commission for allcompositions regardless of idiom, instrumentation, style, or the use of technology. Submissions in jazz, hybrid, electronic, or other idioms are welcome. Must be a legal resident of the United States for a term of one year or more during the time of the application. For these purposes, "residents" shall be deemed to include U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, temporary residents, asylees, refugees, and nonimmigrants who have been lawfully admitted to, and reside in, the United States and can ensure they are legally able to be paid for services by Harvard University.AnnuallyJuneSee website
The Gesualdo Six Composition Competitionhttp://www.thegesualdosix.co.uk/composition-competition/Winning works will be premiered by the ensemble at Cadogan Hall and will be considered for publication by Novello & Co Ltd. Prize fund of £1000 is available. Six texts have been specifically selected for composers to set.Two categories: 21 years and under, and 22 years and above.AnnuallyDecember
Gil Soundtrack Awardhttps://www.gilsoundtrack.com/Composers may submit a score for the short film, Somos Tierra. The winning composer will receive 50,000 euros. Composers must be between the ages of 18 and 36 and scores must match instrumentation listed at gilsoundtrack.comAnnuallyAugust
Heckscher Foundation-Ithaca College Composition Prizehttp://www.ithaca.edu/music/current_students/competitions/heckscherprize/$1750 cash prize for a new composition to be premiered by Ithaca College Contemporary Ensemble.AnyoneAnnuallyOctoberFree
ICEBERG Young Composer Awardhttps://www.icebergnewmusic.com/young-composer-awardThese awards are intended to reward composers and music-makers of exceptional ability who hail from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. Winners will receive a $1,000 scholarship, free private instruction from one or more ICEBERG member composers, and the opportunity to have a work read and recorded by one of ICEBERG's 2019-20 partner ensembles.Applicants must be at least 16 years of age, a citizen or permanent resident of USA, and currently enrolled in an accredited high school (or homeschooled). Preference will be given to applicants who self-identify as being from a traditionally underrepresented community. This includes, but is not limited to, applicants who identify as female, nonwhite, and/or LGBTQ+. (Applicants may NOT be related to or dependents of ICEBERG New Music member composers, board members, or administrators.)AnnuallyOctoberFree
International Contemporary Ensemble (ICE) Residencyhttp://metafields.org/icecommons/ICE seeks six creators in the practice of performed sound (composers, sound artists, generative music makers) for residencies beginning in early 2019. Selected artists will receive commission fees starting at $2,500;
compensated workshop time with musicians of ICE; electroacoustic technical support; intermedia design support; documentation including high definition performance video available for free at DigitICE.org; marketing/PR support		Early-career artists in New York City and Minnesota highly encouraged to applySee websiteDecemberSee website
International Society of Bassists: David Walter Composition Competitionhttp://www.isbworldoffice.com/composition.asp$1000 and world premieres for new works in three categories: 1. unaccompanied solo bass, 2. chamber ensemble featuring bass, and 3. bass ensemble.AnyoneAnnuallyJune$50/composition
International Society for Contemporary Musichttps://www.iscm.org/articles/competitionsOngoing list of competitions for composersVariesRollingSee websiteSee website
International Songwriting Competitionhttp://songwritingcompetition.com/Various prizes for original songs in various categories: Pop/Top 40, Rock, Hip-Hop, etc.Anyone.AnnuallySeptember$25/song
Iowa State University Carillon Competitionhttp://www.music.iastate.edu/carillon/festival/competitionwinner.phpCompetition to encourage young composers to write for carillonSee websiteBienniallySee websiteSee website
Ithaca College Choral Composition Contesthttp://www.ithaca.edu/music/current_students/competitions/choralcompetition/Cash prizes up to $1200 and performances for 3-5 minute works for mixed choir.AnyoneAnnuallyDecember$25/score
Jerome Foundation Grantshttps://www.jeromefdn.org/all-grant-opportunities2-year Artist Fellowship supports creation of new work
workspace/studio/rehearsal rental, research, travel, professional development, professional equipment purchase, residency participation, development of new skills, and/or other needs directly related to artistic and career development as defined by the Fellow.		Open only to non-student early career generative artists who are legal residents of Minnesota or the five boroughs of New York City and not-for-profit arts organizations that serve those artists.AnnuallyMayFree
Juventas New Music Ensemble Call for Scoreshttp://www.juventasmusic.com/call-for-scores.htmlJuventas New Music Ensemble seeks chamber music and art songs responding to current affairs, to be performed at their February concert, "Freedom of Speech" in Boston.Any composer who identifies as both an emerging composer at the early stages of their careerAnnuallyNovember$10/composition
Keuris Composers Contesthttp://keurisconcours.nl/en/Winning pieces are premiered by the Amersfoort Youth Orchestra and Keuris Ensemble.AnyoneBienniallyFebruarySee website
Kronos Quartet: Under 30 Projecthttp://kronosquartet.org/projects/detail/under_30String quartet commission and performance.Under 30 at time of applicationAnnuallySee websiteSee website
Lake George Music Festival Composition Competitionhttp://lakegeorgemusicfestival.com/composition-competition1-2 winners receive $500 and performance of their work at LGMF. Winner is invited to be "Composer In Residence" to work with the musicians performing their work.AnyoneAnnuallyJanuary$10
League of American Orchestras Women Composers Readings and Commissions Programhttp://www.americanorchestras.org/conducting-artistic-programs/women-composer-readings-and-commissions.htmlSelected works will be read by various partner orchestras. Selected composers will receive $15000 commisions.Women composersAnnuallySee websiteSee website
League of Composers/ISCM Composition Competitionhttp://leagueofcomposers.org/category/competition/$750 prize and performance in NYC by Orchestra of the League of ComposersAnyoneAnnuallySee websiteSee website
Left Coast Chamber Ensemble Composition Contesthttp://www.leftcoastensemble.org/past-contest-winners/$1500, a performance by Left Coast Chamber Ensemble, and a recording of the performance.Anyone.AnnuallySee websiteSee website
Miquel Llobet Guitar Composition Contesthttps://mllobet.com/en/certamenllobetCall for scores for 3-6' unpublished classical guitar works. Winning compositions will receive performances and winning composers will receive cash prize and honorary certificate. AnyoneAnnuallyJune15 Euro
Lydian String Quartet Commission Prizehttp://www.lydianquartet.com/prize.htmlA $15000 commission for a 15-30 minute string quartet.Anyone, except for current Brandeis studentsAnnuallyDecember$25
MATA Festival Call for Submissionshttps://matafestival.org/faq/Selected works will be performed at the MATA Festival in New York City. All sorts of music is accepted: fully notated, improvised, sound art, video, electronic, found instruments, toys, installations, and everything in between.Composers under age 40AnnuallyDec-FebFree
Mata Jr. Festivalhttps://matafestival.org/mata-jr/MATA Jr. pairs pre-college composers selected from a free, global, call for submissions with emerging composers in a six-month mentorship program to create new works for performance by teen new-music ensemble Face the Music.Pre-college composersAnnuallyJanuaryFree
mise-en Music Festival Call for Scoreshttps://festival.mise-en.org/submission/Selected works will be performed at the Mise-En Festival in NYC, and composers are offered free housing to attend and participate.AnyoneAnnuallyDecember$27 per entry
Mivos/Kanter String Quartet Composition Prizehttps://www.mivosquartet.com/7th-mivoskanter-string-quartet-composition-prize/Winning composer receives a $300 cash prize, $100 travel stipend, and a performance of their work in New York City by the Mivos Quartet.Composers must be currently residing in the United States and in the early/middle stages of developing an international career and for whom this prize would represent a significant career opportunity.AnnuallyJuly$10
I Creation/Mivos Quartet Prize for Chinese Composershttps://www.mivosquartet.com/i-creation-mivos-composition-prize-for-chinese-composers/Winning composer receives $1,000 cash prize and performances of their work in NYC and Hong Kong by the Mivos QuartetEmerging Chinese composersBienniallyApril$35 early deadline / $45 late deadline
MIZZOU New Music Summer Festival Call for Scoreshttps://newmusic.missouri.edu/micf/mizzou-international-composers-festivalSelected composers will be selected to compose a work for a renowned new music ensemble.See websiteAnnuallyNovemberSee website
Foundation for Modern Music: Robert Avalon Composition Competitionhttp://modernmusic.org/guidelines-rules/$75-$1,000 cash prizes and performance by FMM performers of the winning submissions in a variety of categories4 Divisions ranging from 8th grade to professional. AnnuallyJanuaryVaries by category ($30-$75)
MTNA Distinguished Composer of the Year Awardhttps://www.mtna.org/MTNA/Engage/Commissioned_Composer/Distinguished_Composer_of_the_Year/MTNA/Engage/Commissioned_Composer/Distinguished_Composer_of_the_Year_Award.aspx?hkey=b7da1dc6-7564-4529-b760-3511f3802449The award is given to a selected composer of a state-commissioned work.MTNA membership requiredAnnuallySee websiteFree
National Association for Music Education (NAfME) Student Composers Competitionhttps://nafme.org/programs/contests-calls-competitions/nafme-student-composers-competition/Students (K-grad school) are invited to submit original music to be performed at the Young Composers Concert. Up to ten winning composers will receive cash awards and all entrants receive written feedback. Students, or teachers of students in grades K-grad school. 3 Categories: K-8, High School, and Collegiate.AnnuallySee websiteSee website
NAfME Electronic Music Composition Competitionhttps://nafme.org/programs/contests-calls-competitions/nafme-electronic-music-composition-contest/The NAfME Electronic Music Composition Competition recognizes outstanding compositions and highlights the effectiveness of music technology in the school curriculum. Entries will be judged based on their aesthetic quality, use of electronic media, and the power of the composition. The schools of the winners in each category will receive a one-year subscription to Soundation4Education, courtesy of MusicFirst. Students, or teachers of students in grades K-grad school. 3 Categories: K-8, High School, and Collegiate. Entrants must be sponsored by an NAfME member teacher, or be a NAfME Collegiate member in good standing.AnnuallySee websiteSee website
National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) Junior Composer Awardshttps://www.nfmc-music.org/competitionscategory/junior-composers-awards/Cash prizes for various types of pieces: choral works, piano solos, small ensemble pieces, and pieces for voice and accompaniment.Various awards and categories for composers under 9 through 18 years old.AnnuallyVaries by state$5
National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) Student Collegiate Divisionhttps://www.nfmc-music.org/competitionscategory/student-collegiate-division/Cash award for student/collegiate composition studentsMust have reached the 19th, but not the 26th birthday by the application deadline. Must be a junior, senior, or graduate student in college, majoring in compositionAnnuallyMarch$10
National Flute Association Flute Choir Composition Competitionhttp://www.nfaonline.org/Annual-Convention/Competitions/Flute-Choir-Composition.asp$2,000 cash prize and performance by the NFA Collegiate Flute Choir at their annual convention.Must be a current NFA memberAnnuallyFebruary$20
National Guild of Piano Teachers Composition Contesthttp://pianoguild.com/composition-contest.htmlVarious prizes and categories for new compositions for piano & piano chamber musicSee websiteAnnuallyNovemberbetween $20-$40
New England Philharmonic Call for Scoreshttp://nephilharmonic.org/competitions/call-for-scores/Performance of an orchestral work on a New England Philharmonic concert.Emerging composersAnnuallyApril$40/score
New Music on the Bayou Festivalhttps://www.newmusiconthebayou.com/call-for-scoresSelected works in one of several instrumentation categories will be performed, in addition to participation in 3-day festival, and eligibility for $500 commission for a new work.AnyoneAnnuallyMarch$20 for first three works submitted, $5 for each additional work submitted
nief-norf Summer Festival Call for Scoreshttp://www.niefnorf.org/call-for-scores/Selected works are premiered by Performance Fellows at the nief-norf Summer Festival.AnyoneAnnuallyJanuary$15 for the first composition, $10 for each additional work.
North/South Consonance Call for Scoreshttp://www.northsouthmusic.org/Call-For-ScoresSelected works will be performed and recorded by North/South Consonance (NYC).AnyoneAnnuallySee websiteSee website
Pacific Musical Society Annual Competitionhttp://www.pacificmusical.com/One $1300 prize.Various age categories. Applicants must be residents of San Francisco, Marin, Napa, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Mateo, Sonoma, Yolo, Sacramento, or Placer counties.
AnnuallyJanuarySee website
PARMA Recordings Call for Scoreshttp://www.parmarecordings.com/call-for-scores.htmlSelected scores will be recorded by PARMA's partner ensembles and commercially released by PARMA Recordings. The submitter is responsible for securing funds associated with the production, and retains all ownership of the master and underlying composition.AnyoneAnnuallyOctoberFree
Polyphonos Choral Composition Competitionhttp://www.theesoterics.org/polyphonos$1000 cash prize plus airfare and accommodations to attend the Seattle premiere of a newly-commisioned work by The Esoterics.Anyone. Up to three separate prizes for 1. a U.S. citizen; 2. a non-U.S. citizen; 3. a young composer (under age 30).AnnuallySeptemberFree
Portland Chamber Music Festival Composers Competitionhttp://www.pcmf.org/#!composers-competition/clix$1,000 cash prize, and performance at the Portland Chamber Music Festival (Maine).Anyone.AnnuallyMarchFree
Portland Percussion Group Call for Scoreshttp://www.portlandpercussiongroup.com/First prize winner receives $500, work published by Tapspace Publications, professional recording, and performance by PPG. 2nd & 3rd prize works will be performed and recorded by the Portland Percussion Group.AnyoneAnnuallyMarch$25
Premio Trio di Trieste International Chamber Music Competitionhttp://www.acmtrioditrieste.it/en/contest-rules-2016/Winners receive a commission project with the Assicurazioni Generali.See websiteAnnuallyMarch40€
Progressive Classical Music Awardhttps://www.pcm-award.com/en/award-2019/announcement-2019/Six works will be selected for performance and recording by The Twiolins. Awards are between 600-5,000€.Anyone. Submitted works must be composed for this competition; Adaptations or arrangements of prior works are not permitted.AnnuallyJuly15€ per submission
Pulitzer Prize in Musichttp://www.pcmf.org/#!composers-competition/clixOne $10,000 prize.Anyone. Works submitted must have their premiere in application year.AnnuallyDecember$75
Quadre Composition Competitionhttps://quadre.org/projects/?p=competitionCall for scores for horn quartet or horn quartet + 1 percussionist. 1st and 2nd place compositions will receive cash prizes ($500 and $300, respecitively) and will be performed the following season by Quadre. AnyoneAnnuallyAprilFree
Quator Bozzini Composers Kitchenhttp://createsend.com/t/j-1D3605B5423B20952540EF23F30FEDEDProfessional residency for composers who will write a new piece for string quartet, in a combination of workshop, laboratory, master class and concert settings. Works are performed in Utrecht, Netherlands, as a part of Gaudeamus Muziekweek.Canadian (or permanent resident) composersAnnuallyDecember
Random Access Music Call for Scoreshttps://www.ram-nyc.org/post/2020-ram-call-for-scoresEach year, RAM collaborates with an ensemble to present a concert of world premieres. As part of this collaboration, RAM conducts an anonymous call for scores on which the winning composition is included.AnyoneAnnuallyFebruaryFree
Red Note Composition Competitionhttps://finearts.illinoisstate.edu/red-note/competition/Composers may submit to up to three categories: Works for Chamber Ensemble, Works for Wind Ensemble, and Works for Chorus. Winners receive performance of work on Red Note Festival in Illinois State University and a cash prize. AnyoneAnnuallyNovember$25
Red Note Composition Workshophttps://finearts.illinoisstate.edu/red-note/workshop/Invited participants will each compose a 5 to 10-minute piece for one of the guest ensembles. Each composition will be carefully rehearsed during the Festival, and will be premiered at a formal concert. Each composer will receive a recording of his or her piece. Applicants must be graduate or undergraduate students at time of Festival

AnnuallyOctoberFree
Rivers School Conservatory Young Composers Commission Awardhttps://www.riversschoolconservatory.org/events/competitions/young-composers-award/The Rivers School Conservatory invites high school-aged composers to compete for a chance to create a commissioned 6-8 minute work for four-hand piano to be performed at The Rivers School Conservatory Annual Seminar on Contemporary Music for the Young in April of 2021. Winning composer will also be awarded $1,000.Applicants must be at least 14 years of age, enrolled in an accredited high school or home-schooling program and be a US resident or citizenAnuallyMarch$35
Intermusic SF (Formerly SF Friends of Chamber Music) Musical Grant Programhttps://www.intermusicsf.org/mgpGrants for composers, performers, and presenters to cover composer fees, performance and rehersal fees, production costs, etc. for a concert series or festival.Must reside in one of the 15 counties of the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Must be at least 18 years old. Must confirm eligibility with the organization prior to applying.AnnuallyMarchFree
San Francisco Contemporary Music Players Call for Scoreshttps://sfcmp.org/sf-search-2018-19-30-call-scores/Selected composers will receive $500 stiped in addition to a workshop and feedback session with SFCMP, archival recording, and performance on the SFCMP concert series.Composers under 30 woth a permanent address in the US. Composers in the Bay Area are required to attend workshops and performances.AnnuallyNovember '18Free
San Francisco Choral Artists "New Voices Project"http://www.sfca.org/new-voices-project/3 winners: selected works are premiered and recorded by SFCA at 3 concerts in the greater Bay Area. 1st prize winner receives $500.Must be under 30 & a US residentAnnuallyDecember
Society for New Music: Brian Israel Awardhttp://www.societyfornewmusic.org/resources.cfmTwo $750 awards and a performance of concert music for one to seven performers.Open to any composer in New York State under the age of 30.AnnuallyMayFree
SoundWebs MicroCommissionshttps://soundwebs-microcommissions.carrd.co/Up to 6 composers will receive a $500 commission fee and be given 4-6 weeks to create their works. Commissioned composers will be assigned a public space in Cincinnati and an ensemble to work with. They'll be asked to create a space-specific work that is an impactful part of the event. Anyone - must be able to workshop in CincinnatiAnnuallyAprilFree
SPLICE Ensemble Call for Scoreshttps://splicemusic.org/festival/ii/call/SPLICE welcomes proposals from performers, composers, composer/performer teams, and composer-performers for performative works that feature human-driven live performance (on traditional or nontraditional instruments) and electronics (fixed or live), one-hour hands-on workshops, and fifteen-minute lectures. AnyoneAnnuallyMayFree
Suzanne and Lee Ettelson Composer’s Award 2020http://www.ninthplanetmusic.org/ettelson.htmlAn award of $1,000 will be given for a new chamber work. The winning work will be performed in the San Francisco Bay Area during Ninth Planet’s 2020-21 concert season. Award winners are expected to attend performances. Works not awarded prizes will also be considered for programming.AnyoneAnnuallyJanuary$25 for one submission; $20 for subsequent submissions
Symphony in C Young Composers’ Competitionhttp://www.symphonyinc.org/orchestra/young-composers-competitionWinning composition will be performed and recorded by Symphony in C. Only composers born after April 28, 1988 may apply. Must be US citizens, permanent residents, or current foreign students at American schools.AnnuallyFebruaryFree
Symphony Number One Call for Scoreshttps://symphonynumber.one/scores/Selected composers will be invited to write a new work for chamber orchestra and chamber ensemble to be rehearsed, performed, and recorded during the following season.AnyoneAnnuallySee websiteSee website
Texas New Music Ensemble (TNME) Student Composers Competitionhttps://tnme.org/scc-2/One winner will be commissioned to write an 8-10 minute piece for clarinet, cello, and piano, to be premiere at the annual TNME summer concert in August.Open to any composer currently enrolled in a music degree program at a Texas institution.AnnuallyMarch
Third Angle New Music Composer Submissionshttps://www.thirdangle.org/composer-submissions/Third Angle New Music accepts submissions on a rolling basis for works to be considered for performanceAnyoneRollingRollingFree
Third Millenium Ensemble Young Composers' Competitionhttp://thirdmillenniumensemble.org/19competitionguid.htmlComposers will be chosen to have their works performed by members of the Third Millenium Ensemble. First prize: $400. Second prize: $200. Young Composer Prize: $150 or $100 for Pre-College. First & Second prize winners will receive performances by TME. Winning pieces in the Young Composer category may be eligible for performance.Anyone may apply. Participants in the "Young Composer" category must be 21 or younger by February 2019.AnnuallyFebruary$35 application fee for one piece; $15 for each additional submission.
Toru Takemitsu Composition Awardhttp://www.operacity.jp/en/concert/award/entry/index.phpOne cash prize of 3,000,000 yen and performances of selected orchestral works.Any person, regardless of nationality, who is not over 35 years old at the end of the year of the application deadlines.AnnuallySeptemberFree
Treefalls Music Call for Scoreshttp://treefallsmusic.org/call-for-scores-SPO2015-emerging.htmlCash prizes from $150-250, and a performance of the winning work.Composer must be a resident of SC, NC, or GA, and must not hold a graduate degree in music theory or composition.AnnuallyJanuaryFree
Tribeca New Music Festival Young Composer Competitionhttp://www.tribecanewmusic.org/youngcomposercompetition/The winner in each division will receive $1,000, a performance at the festival, and a recording.Two divisions: 1. composers ages 22-35; 2. composers ages 21 and younger. Must be a US Citizen or permanent resident.AnnuallyJanuary$35/work
Underwood New Music Readings and Commissionhttps://www.americancomposers.org/2018/10/11/call-for-applications-underwood-new-music-readings-2019/Chosen composers will have their pieces workshopped and recorded by the American Composers Orchestra (NYC). Composers also participate in a series of professional development workshops covering such topics as promotion, score preparation and publishing, copyright and commissioning agreements, and other career essentials.U.S. citizens or non-citizens lawfully and permanently residing, or studying full-time, in the United States.AnnuallyDec-JanFree
University of Vermont Festival of New Music Call for Scoreshttp://www.uvm.edu/~dfeurzei/FNM/call/(UVM-FNM) seeks instrumental chamber works to be performed at 2019 festival. Winner receives travel costs up to $400 and lodging for the festival, with the winning work performed on April 7, 2019 at the University of Vermont.AnyoneAnnuallyDecemberFree
Versipel New Music Call for Scoreshttp://versipel.org/call-for-scores/Performances of selected works by Versipel New Music (New Orleans).AnyoneAnnuallyJanuary$12
Vic Salvo Music Composition Scholarshiphttp://www.leftcoastensemble.org/victor-salvo-music-composition-scholarship/One student will win 5 hours of mentoring from a professional composer and an ensemble reading of the student's piece.High school students whose permanent address is in the San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland, CA or Sacramento-Roseville Combined Statistical AreasAnnuallyJanuaryFree
Vox Novus Fifteen-Minutes-of-Fame Project Call For Scoreshttp://www.voxnovus.com/15_Minutes_of_Fame/calls/Vox Novus commissions fifteen 1-minute scores to be performed by that year's performerAnyoneRollingRollingFree
Walter Beeler Memorial Composition Prizehttp://www.ithaca.edu/music/current_students/competitions/beelerprize/$5,000 and a performance of the work by Ithaca College's wind band.Anyone.AnnuallyNovemberFree
Washington International Competitionhttp://www.fmmc.org/competitions/washington-international-competitions/Prizes for a new string quartet, piano quartet, piano quintet, piano trio, or string trio.See websiteEvery three yearsSee websiteSee website
wasteLAnd Featured Composerhttps://www.wastelandmusic.org/featured-composer/Performances of selected works on the wasteLAnd ensemble's concert series.AnyoneAnnuallySee websiteSee website
Women Composers of Hartford Festival: Composer in Residence Applicationhttp://www.womencomposersfestivalhartford.com/calls/composer-in-residence-application/The Composer-in-Residence will have her music showcased on the Festival, will give talks and masterclasses to area schools, participate in other outreach and publicity activities, compose a new work to be premiered at the Festival, and more.Women composersAnnuallyRolling/JanuaryFree
For more opportunities, visit www.composerssite.com

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  • The Ivan Juritz Prize 2019 October 31, 2018
    Web site:  http://www.ivanjuritzprize.co.uk Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2019-03-29 Entries are invited for The Ivan Juritz Prize for Creative Experiment 2019. We are delighted to announce that the 2019 prize is now open and has grown! For the first time there will be a winner for each category: text, image, sound. The three winners will each […]
  • Music Copyist, Transcription Services October 31, 2018
    Web site:  http://aaronclarke.net Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) My name is Aaron Clarke. I'm a composer, guitarist, and percussionist based in the Boston area. I have significant experience in score and part preparation, proofreading, and formatting. I worked for four years alongside the composer of an opera which has had several national performances (Portland, ME; Pittsburgh, […]
  • 2019 WSU Festival of Contemporary Art Music October 30, 2018
    Web site:  https://goo.gl/forms/KfI2YJMIV4QgR3Jy1 Expiration of Opportunity:  Wed, 2018-11-14 The Washington State University School of Music invites submissions to the annual WSU Festival of Contemporary Art Music, held February 28-March 2, 2019 in Pullman, Washington. We are pleased to welcome this year’s guest composer Jim Stephenson (https://composerjim.com), whose works will be presented by WSU faculty and […]
  • "1 hour COMPOSED" - Extemporary Music Theater Project October 30, 2018
    Web site:  https://festivaldellavoce.wordpress.com/call-for-scores/ Expiration of Opportunity:  Thu, 2018-11-15 Are you a music composer? Are you able to write a music theater piece in just 1 hour or less? "1 hour COMPOSED" is a call for scores oper to composers from all over the world. The piece has to be: - written for 1 to 6 […]
  • Call for scores – Equilibrium (Polish-Hungarian composition workshop and concert) October 30, 2018
    Expiration of Opportunity:  Mon, 2018-11-19 Sonus Foundation for the Support of New Music and Contemporary Performing Arts announces Equilibrium, a workshop and concert of new miniatures for two organs with microtonal tuning. Published date:  30 Oct 2018 read more
  • Emerging Composers Competition at The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York October 29, 2018
    Web site:  http://www.myo.org/myo-programs/emerging-composers-competition/ Expiration of Opportunity:  Wed, 2018-12-19 Entry Fee:  25.00 Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra of New York (MYO) is hosting an Emerging Composers Competition, open to all unpublished composers under the age of 25 as of July 1, 2019. This national competition has a Choral Division and an Orchestral Division. […]
  • Piano Solo - Noosa ISAM Composition Competition October 28, 2018
    Web site:  https://noosaisam.com/noosa-isam-piano-competition/ Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2018-11-30 Entry Fee:  12.50 Currency:  Euro (EUR) We have just received addition sponsorship to include a piano concert by the esteemed Ukrainian concert pianist Roman Lopatynskyi. He will be performing in the 2019 Noosa ISAM festival and will be programming 21st Century works in his concert. Therefore we […]
  • Assistant/Associate Professor of Composition (2 positions) October 26, 2018
    Web site:  http://apply.interfolio.com/55039 Expiration of Opportunity:  Sat, 2018-12-15 Two Positions in Music Composition – School of Music Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University The School of Music in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University seeks two exceptional artist-scholars in the area of music composition. […]
  • OSSIA New Music: 2018–19 International Call for Scores October 26, 2018
    Web site:  https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uNtEu0u1ruY_UXinmZabMvp-uwIV129WUplfH4mYXmU/... Expiration of Opportunity:  Sat, 2018-12-01 Entry Fee:  0.00 OSSIA New Music: 2018–19 International Call for Scores APPLICATION DEADLINE: DECEMBER 1st, 2018 at 11:59PM US Eastern Time OSSIA New Music, the student-run new music organization at the Eastman School of Music, is pleased to announce a call for scores for our 2018–2019 International […]
  • NOVA Chamber Orchestra call for Scores and a Composer in Residence October 26, 2018
    Web site:  https://novachamberorchest.wixsite.com/novachamberorchestra Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2019-02-01 Entry Fee:  5.00 Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) NOVA Chamber Orchestra call for Scores and a Composer in Residence - Deadline: February 1, 2019 CONDITIONS: - Composers ages: no limit - All submitted works must be 5-20 minutes in length and must use the following instruments (numbers in […]
  • Vienna Summer Music Festival - Composers Forum - Opera Composition October 25, 2018
    Web site:  https://www.viennasummermusic.com/composers-forum Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2018-11-30 Entry Fee:  35.00 Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) The Vienna Summer Music Festival-Composers Forum is proud to announce that we have expanded our composition program to opera and choral composition alongside our instrumental program featuring resident guest ensemble PHACE. There are three different programs within the VSMF - […]
  • Admissions open: Brown University [US], Fully-funded PhD in Music & Mutimedia Composition October 25, 2018
    Web site:  http://brown.edu/go/mmc Expiration of Opportunity:  Tue, 2019-01-01 Entry Fee:  75.00 Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) Admissions are now open at Brown University for fully-funded Ph.D.’s in the Music and Multimedia Composition program. We encourage applicants from a wide range of diverse influences and methods to apply. Students in the program will produce, analyze, and perform […]
  • WAV - Open Calls October 24, 2018
    Web site:  http://www.movinglab.org Expiration of Opportunity:  Sun, 2018-12-23 Entry Fee:  20.00 Currency:  Euro (EUR) WAV- Venice Audio- Visual Show welcomes you to the first year of celebrating music and audio-visual art forms from all over the world. Our aim is to showcase and highlight local and international music videos, films, photos, and music compositions. We […]
  • Music Copyist/Engraver/Transcriber October 24, 2018
    Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) My name is Elijah Shiffer. I am a composer and saxophonist in New York, and I'm offering my services as a copyist, engraver, and transcriber. I engrave music in Finale. My specialty is jazz but I'm open to working with any/all other music. Email me at thirteenflatnine@yahoo.com for more information. Published […]
  • Music Current Festival 2019 October 24, 2018
    Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2018-12-14 Participate in Music Current 2019 Dublin Sound Lab invites composers to submit works for performance by the Swiss new music trio RETRO DISCO at MUSIC CURRENT FESTIVAL, Dublin, 10-13 April 2019. As many as eight composers will be selected and invited to attend all festival concerts at Smock Alley Theatre, […]
  • Kantos Chamber Choir Carol Competition 2018 October 23, 2018
    Web site:  https://www.kantoschamberchoir.com/carol-competition-2018/ Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2018-11-30 Entry Fee:  10.00 Currency:  British Pound (GBP) Christmas Carol Competition 2018 Kantos Chamber Choir are a leading ensemble in the North West of England The winning entry will be performed in the ‘Carols from Kantos’ concert on the evening of Saturday 15th December at Christ Church, West […]
  • Composition competition "RUMORE BIANCO" October 23, 2018
    Web site:  http://www.furanosaxquartet.com/ Expiration of Opportunity:  Sun, 2019-03-31 Entry Fee:  30.00 Currency:  Euro (EUR) Composition Competition “RUMORE BIANCO” The Furano saxophone quartet, in collaboration with cultural association “Note a Sud”, is proud to announce a composition competition seeking submissions of new scores for saxophone quartet to be included in its repertoire with compositions belonging to […]
  • International Gothic Association Call for Fixed Media October 23, 2018
    Web site:  https://www.newmusicengine.org/categories/International-Gothic-Association-Call-... Expiration of Opportunity:  Fri, 2019-02-01 Entry Fee:  0.00 Currency:  U.S. Dollar (USD) The International Gothic Association is pleased to announce a call for fixed media works to be presented at their conference at Lewis University, July 30-August 2, 2019. The conference will host between 200 and 300 teachers, scholars, students, artists, writers […]
  • Call for scores: Chamber music scores by African-American women composers October 22, 2018
    Web site:  http://www.crossingbordersmusic.org Expiration of Opportunity:  Mon, 2018-11-19 Call for Scores: Chamber Music by African-American Women Composers Published date:  22 Oct 2018 read more
  • Call For Scores "Portraits and Remembrance" - Rossi Fest 2019 October 22, 2018
    Web site:  https://www.rossifest.org/applications2019 Expiration of Opportunity:  Sat, 2018-12-15 Rossi Fest 2019 Call is open for young composers`works that give a contribution to the world heritage in terms of culture of remembrance of the World War II, Holocaust victims and those who opposed it, being based on or inspired by historical, literary or other sources dealing […]