2024 Contest Theme: Songs of Travel

Competition is open to current US residents

Level:

• The winning composition must be at a technical level that makes performance possible by a volunteer chamber adult choir of 40 voices.

• Entries must be original compositions (no arrangements of works by other composers).

Voicing:

• Voicing should be SATB.

• Moderate tessitura and harmonic language should be used for all parts (Sopranos C4-G5, Altos G3-D5, Tenors C3-F4, Basses G2-D4)

• Limited divisi will be allowed.

Text:

• The composer will choose the text based on the theme SONGS OF TRAVEL.

• Text should be Public Domain or the composer’s own creation. If neither Public Domain or original, the text should be accompanied by documentation clearly confirming that the composer has secured permission for use and presentation in public performances. (Any costs related to securing said permission are solely the responsibility of the composer.)

• English is preferred, but pieces that use other languages will be considered.

Accompaniment and Length:

• Compositions may be a cappella, accompanied by piano, and/or up to 6 instruments.

• Compositions should be at least 3 minutes but not more than 10 minutes.

Submission Details:

• Compositions may not have been previously adjudicated or performed in public. Huntsville Master Chorale, conducted by Dr. Patricia Ramirez Hacker, will premiere the winning entry in their May 2024 Concerts.

• Electronic submissions (PDF) are required. Audio files in MP3 format are strongly encouraged.

• Scores must be clear and ready for duplication and performance, using one of the standard music printing programs (PDF, Finale, Sibelius, etc.)

• The names of all participants will be held in confidence during the adjudication. Please remove all identifying marks from submitted scores as the judging will be conducted anonymously.

• Failure to remove all identifying marks will subject a piece to disqualification.

• A completed copy of the entry form below must accompany each submission.

• Entries using copyrighted lyrics must include written permission.

• Composers may submit no more than two compositions.

DEADLINE - Compositions must be submitted by February 29, 2024

Submissions should be sent by email to hsvmasterchorale@gmail.com

Evaluation:

The winning composition will be selected by a panel of guest judges, members of the Huntsville Master Chorale and the Chorale’s Artistic Director. This evaluation will consider the quality of the piece and its suitability for a successful performance by the Huntsville Master Chorale. The winning piece and composer will be announced by email and social media platforms on March 29, 2024. The decision of the judging is final. Should the compositions submitted not meet the standards set forth, the Huntsville Master Chorale reserves the right to withhold the award.

Copyrights:

The Huntsville Master Chorale shall retain unlimited performance and mechanical rights to performances and recordings made by the Huntsville Master Chorale. The composer shall retain all other copy, performance, and mechanical rights to their works.

Award: $1000