As a champion of new music, the League of Composers sponsors an annual composition competition to recognize outstanding new musical works.

PRIZES

Two prizes totaling $1,500 are awarded:

  • League of Composers-ISCM Prize: $1000 + New York performance + nomination to ISCM World Music Days

  • Steven R. Gerber Composition Prize: $500 + possible New York performance.

eligibility

All composers are eligible for all prizes. (Note: Only US citizens or those residing in the US can be selected to represent ISCM at the World Music Days.)

GUIDELINES

Composition Requirements: Works for solo instrument, small ensemble, or any combination up to a chamber orchestra may be submitted. Works featuring voice, choir, and/or electronic media will also be accepted. Works should be no longer than 20 minutes in duration. There are no stylistic limitations. 

For works with more than 15 players, unusual combinations, or other practical problems, a different piece of the composer's may be substituted for the New York performance.

adjudication

The adjudication process is done anonymously. The judging panel is made up of members of the League of Composers Board of Directors.

DEADLINE

June 15, 2024 at 11:59pm EST. The Competition is now closed.

Submission information & materials

Our submission process is entirely electronic. Since judging is done anonymously, all traces of the composer's name should be removed from submitted score and audio. No pseudonym is needed. If the work you wish to submit cannot be submitted through our online submission process, please contact us at info@leagueofcomposers.org.

Required Materials:

  • PDF of score (all traces of composer’s name removed)

  • MP3 recording (if available; 100MB limit; virtual realizations are accepted)

  • Entry fee ($25 per submission)

ENTRY Form

Submit your piece on this Google Form.

Pay the entry fee at this link.

Please use the same email on both forms.