Golden State Youth Orchestra is thrilled to announce its first annual Emerging Composers' Competition, an opportunity that not only showcases the innovative works of young composers but also highlights the exceptional talents of GSYO's young musicians.
In a world where classical music often seems steeped in tradition, the Golden State Youth Orchestra is pushing boundaries by providing a platform for the next generation of composers and musicians to collaborate and innovate. This competition is truly a celebration of what's next in classical music as well as a testament to GSYO's ongoing commitment to fostering young talent.
From GSYO Music Director and Conductor Dr. Yun Song Tay, "Instead of just a straightforward commission for an established composer, we thought that a competition for emerging composers would be more on brand with who we are as an organization - A youth orchestra which focuses on nurturing the next generation of musicians and music lovers. We hope that we can provide a platform for emerging composers to get their pieces performed and careers launched. Hopefully, this is the first of many editions to come."
Golden State Youth Orchestra is composed of talented young musicians from across the San Francisco Bay Area. By performing the winning pieces from the competition, they gain invaluable experience in interpreting new works and collaborating directly with composers. This experience not only enhances their musical skills but also prepares them to become future leaders in the classical music world.
Golden State Youth Orchestra invites all composers of any career status, nationality, or demographic group under the age of 35 to apply. Works will be considered based on its composition quality and appropriateness for GSYO and its audience.
Key Dates:
Application Opens: September 9, 2024
Submission Deadline: April 30, 2025
Winners Announcement: June 1, 2025
Prizes:
First Prize: US$750, Performance of the work during the 2025-2026 season by the Symphony Orchestra, the top orchestra at GSYO, including a professional audio recording of the concert performance
Second Prize: US$500
Third Prize: US $250
The competition will be adjudicated by an esteemed panel, including Jeffery Meyer, Professor of Music, Orchestral Conducting, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, Valeria Pelka, Composer & Orchestrator, and Yun Song Tay, GSYO Music Director and Conductor.
Here are some videos of our group performing contemporary works from the past year!
Anna Clyne Masquerade (2013): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lRNNIZ_dCA
Jonathan Shin Night Bazaar (2019): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYcBZa9WXTQ
Detailed submission guidelines and the entry form are available at gsyomusic.org/ecc
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