Open call: New Mexico State University Young Composer Initiative scores

The composition should be no longer than 15 minutes in length and should utilise the generally accepted wind band/ensemble instrumentation as seen below:

• Flutes (up to five players: option to use one piccolo and/or one alto flute as part of the five).
• Oboe (up to two players: recommended to provide optional cues for any solo parts).
• Bassoon (up to two players: recommended to provide optional cues for any solo parts).
• Clarinets (up to eight players: option to use one E-flat soprano, and/or one B-flat bass clarinet as part of the eight).
• Saxophones (up to five players: SAATB, SATB, or AATB).
• Trumpets (up to six players).
• Horns (up to four players).
• Trombones (up to four players including one bass trombone).
• Euphonium (up to two players).
• Tuba (up to two Players).
• String bass (one).
• Piano (recommended to be an optional addition)
• Percussion (up to six players):
  • Timpani.
  • Snare.
  • Bass drum.
  • Cymbals.
  • Marimba.
  • Xylophone.
  • Glockenspiel.
  • Vibraphone.
  • Chimes.
  • Crotales
  • Auxiliary (Standard).
  • Applicants may ask for other available instruments.

Submission process

Submission of a full score (PDF format) with audio recording or MIDI/Computer realisation should be submitted here before 1 September for full consideration.

The composer may be asked for a full set of parts if their piece is selected as a finalist. Materials should be able to be downloaded and printed. Composers retain the rights to their materials, but once submitted, if selected as a winner, the composer grants permission for their piece to be performed as part of the NMSU Young Composer Initiative.

A jury panel will evaluate each submitted composition. All compositions will be presented anonymously to the jury.

Submission guidelines

• Each applicant may submit only one work for consideration.
• Compositions must fulfil the guidelines as listed above.
• Compositions must be wholly original, unperformed, unpublished pieces completed within 18 months of September 1, 2024. Reading sessions are fine. An unperformed piece counts as a piece that has never received its concert premiere.
• Compositions requiring amplification, electronics, tape, computer, or CD are not eligible.

Prizes

• One or more winners will be announced on 1 October.
• Travel and lodging to Las Cruces, NM, for the dress rehearsal/concert performance will be provided.
• $500 honorarium.
• Professional recording of the performance.
• Recognition in the concert programme.

Any enquiries should be emailed to Dr Michael Mapp at [email protected].