About
SYSO invites young composers to submit original orchestral works for chamber ensemble, string orchestra, or full orchestra for the first-ever Young Composers Award! Selected award recipients will collaborate with SYSO conductors, receive feedback, and hear their music performed as part of SYSO’s 2026-27 concert season.
Eligibility:
- Current SYSO students enrolled in a program during the upcoming academic year
- SYSO alumni up to the age of 26
Award Recipients:
- Award recipients will have their work performed by a SYSO ensemble during the 2026-2027 season.
- The SYSO Music Director and Director of Orchestra Operations will determine the performance location, date, and accompanying ensemble based on artistic and logistical considerations.
Apply
Applications for the 2026 award are closed.
Application Guidelines
- Length of piece within 3-10 minutes
- Must be a fully original work (the use of generative AI is not allowed)
- Instrumentation: chamber ensemble, string orchestra, or full symphony
Submission materials:
- Full score PDF
- Audio (midi) optional
- Program notes
Evaluation Criteria
Each submission will be thoughtfully reviewed by a guest adjudicator, with the final awardees selected by a combination of adjudicator feedback and SYSO conductor input.
Works will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- Creativity/originality
- Orchestration & playability
- Musical structure
- Suitability for SYSO ensembles
Dates & Timeline
- June 10 – Award applications open
- July 9 – Applications due
- August 28 – Award recipients notified
- September 3 – Award recipients announced
Founded in 1942, Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra is the largest youth orchestra training program in the United States.
