Open call: Sofia Art and Music Festival 2026 orchestral programme

The two-week orchestral programme is organised by Global Arts United in partnership with the Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra. The initiative is designed for composers and conductors who wish to develop orchestral works through rehearsals and a public performance.

Selected composers will work directly with the orchestra and conductor during the festival period. The programme culminates in a public concert at the Bulgaria Hall.

Programme overview

Participants selected for the orchestral programme will receive:

• One full orchestral rehearsal.
• One dress rehearsal.
• A public premiere performance of their work.
• Professional audio and video documentation of the performance.

Compositions submitted for the programme may be up to 10 minutes in duration.

Composer categories

Applicants may submit works in the following categories:

• Symphony orchestra.
• Concerto, with optional soloists including piano, cello, violin or clarinet. Other instruments may be considered.

Maximum orchestral instrumentation:

• Woodwinds: 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons.
• Brass: 4 horns, 3 trumpets, 3 trombones, 1 tuba.
• Percussion: timpani and three percussion parts.
• Additional instruments: piano (or celesta), harp and strings.

Programme fee

The participation fee for composers is €4 395 (about $5 100).

The fee covers:

• Accommodation with breakfast.
• Rehearsals and lessons.
• Lectures and masterclasses.
• Cultural activities during the festival.
• A concert performance of the selected work.
• Audio and video documentation.

Scholarships

Merit-based and need-based scholarships of up to €1 500 are available to selected participants.

Application requirements

Applicants must submit the following materials:

• Personal information and curriculum vitae details.
• One large-ensemble score (for eight or more players). MIDI audio is optional.
• One additional score.
• Two references.
• A public link to portfolio materials.

Deadlines

• Application deadline: 15 March 2026.
• Final scores due: 15 May 2026.
• Final orchestral parts due: 30 May 2026.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome within seven to ten business days after submission

View the original call here.