Multiphonic is currently organizing its second international composition competition around the theme of the saxophone quartet. Participation in the Multiphonic 2026 competition is open to all composers without restriction as to age or nationality.

This competition follows the Multiphonic concept: candidates have to submit a creation freely inspired by a selection of works from the repertoire. This year’s pieces are the following from the saxophone quartet repertoire:

• Jean-Baptiste Singelée: 3rd and 4th movements of the quartet op 53 (1857).
• Maurice Ravel: excerpt from three songs for SATB choir (1916): Trois beaux oiseaux de paradis (transcription for
  saxophone quartet, examples available on YouTube).
• Alexander Glazunov: 1st movement of the quartet in B flat major, Op. 109 (1932).
• Gabriel Pierné: introduction and variations on a popular round (1936). 

The aim is not to compose “in the style of” or to propose an arrangement, but to develop an original creation in a contemporary musical language. Extended playing techniques may be used, with the exception of any electronic processes.

REQUIREMENTS:
> Instrumentation: SATB saxophone quartet (soprano, alto, tenor, baritone).
> The pieces submitted must be between 4 and 7 minutes long.
> Candidates may submit several pieces. The registration fee is €20 for the first piece and €15 for each additional piece submitted.

PRIZES:
> First prize €600
> Second prize €400
> Third prize €200.

DEADLINE:
1 January 2026

For more info, please visit their webpage.