HOW IT WORKS

1. ATTEND THE WORKSHOP

All entrants are invited to participate in an optional free full-day workshop on Saturday, March 13, 2010. The workshop is open to young composers and young musicians interested in learning how to write music. Workshop participants must register for the workshop. The workshop is available on a first-come first-serve basis and only a limited number will be allowed to attend, so register early! Attendees will learn the principles of composition, orchestration, music notation, scoring software, and MIDI technology from nationally-recognized composers. Demonstrations of each orchestral instrument by top professional musicians will be provided, along with tips for writing for those instruments. Entrants who have already written music may bring their compositions for feedback. For other entrants, bring your ideas and talent—and then learn how to compose! (Workshop attendees are not required to enter compositions in the contest and participation in the workshop is not mandatory.)

2. WRITE A SCORE

Spend the summer of 2010 writing an original score—either for full orchestra or for chamber ensemble. All compositions should be no longer than 5 minutes. Full orchestra compositions must be written for standard orchestra instrumentation (see guidelines). Ensemble compositions may be written for up to six instruments.

3. SUBMIT YOUR ENTRY

After you finish your original composition, make a MIDI recording of it. Or, if you prefer, you can make a regular audio-recording (e.g., as played on a piano, etc.). Then submit your recording and score, along with an entry cover letter (PDF). The judges will review all entries and select three full orchestra compositions and three ensemble compositions. Make sure you submit your score postmarked by August 1, 2010.

4. ATTEND THE FINALIST CONCERT

The six winning competitions (three orchestral and three ensemble) will be performed by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra in a public concert at the Bob Carr auditorium on Sunday, October 10, 2010. Each finalist will receive a cash prize and a professional recording of the performance. Finalists must attend.

Schedule