The Jazz Composers Alliance (JCA) announces its 9th annual Jazz Composition contest, awarding cash and prizes to the best original compositions in two categories: small and large ensembles.
Each category carries a $1,500 prize to be divided among the top three composers. In addition to the cash prizes, $3,000 worth of computer-software prizes, donated by Mark of the Unicorn, will be awarded to six finalists. The JCA Orchestra will perform the winning composition in the large ensemble category.
The competition is held in honor of composer Julius Hemphill (pictured left), whose innovations in jazz composition inspired many students and fans, and fueled the World Saxophone Quartet from their inception in 1976 until Hemphill’s departure from the group in 1989.
The JCA helps to promote the work of emerging composers in jazz music, providing them with workshops, classes, competitions and other opportunities to hone their skills.
The composition entry deadline is Dec. 15, 2001, so get your composer’s pen out and let the musings begin.
Entry Guidelines:
1. Recording: cassette tape or CDR. Remove or cover composers name. Recording should only contain the piece being submitted. There is no time limit, but no more than eight minutes will be heard on initial listening.
2. Score or lead sheet. Remove or cover composers name.
3. Short bio or resume. Include ensemble information. Please use 8.5 X 11 paper.
4. Check or money order for $20, payable to the Jazz Composers Alliance.
5. Materials will only be returned with SASE.
Mail all entries to Jazz Composers alliance, Box 491, Allston, MA 02134.
Category #1: Compositions for Large Ensembles. Any ensemble, 8 instruments or voices or larger. Winning composition will be performed by the Jazz Composers Alliance Orchestra unless unusual or large instrumentation makes this impossible.
Category #2: Small Ensembles. 1-7 Instruments or voices. Score or lead sheet as appropriate.
For more information, write [email protected], or Darrell Katz, Box 491, Allston, MA 02134, or call (781) 899-3130.
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