Orchestrating for the 21st Century:
Composer workshop Application
All accepted composers have the opportunity to write a new work for a conducted ensemble of Albany Symphony musicians, to be read in a public workshop during the 2025 American Music Festival. The First Draughts Reading session is an AMF concert event on June 8, 2025. Please be sure to indicate your intention to submit a score for the Reading Session with your application by March 10, 2025.
Score submissions for the Reading Session are due April 28, 2025.
Twelve composers will be selected by Christopher Theofanidis and David Alan Miller based on work samples and professor recommendations. The program is open to graduate composition students, advanced undergraduate students, and recent graduates.
Eligibility & Fees
Applicant must be either a US citizen or non-citizen lawfully residing, or studying full-time, in the United States. Proof of citizenship or residency status may be requested at any time.
There are no age restrictions; however, applicants should be current graduate composition students, advanced undergraduate composition students, or recent graduates at the early stages of their careers.
Winning composers will be expected to join the orchestra for a series of professional development sessions during the orchestra’s American Music Festival from June 2 through 8, 2025.
The $600 workshop fee includes sessions, lessons, two group meals, and the option to participate in a public reading session of a new work. Travel expenses, housing, and additional meals are not included.
Please contact us regarding scholarship options, and we are able to offer discounted hotel room rates.
Required Application Materials
A current resume including educational background, major teachers, awards, and professional affiliations.
A list of works, including title, year composed, instrumentation, duration, and performance history.
Two audio excerpts, 4 to 5 minutes each, with score PDFs. (MIDI or live ensemble are both acceptable.)
Three professional references with contact information. References should be established composers or other music professionals who have worked closely with the applicant.
Optional Application Materials
Cover letter describing how the workshop would provide professional and personal benefits.
Program notes for any submitted works.
Letters of recommendation from listed references attesting to the applicant’s accomplishments and potential as an orchestral composer.
Applications due by Midnight, march 10, 2025
Submission Guidelines
Please use the following form to submit your application material by the deadline.
Direct any questions or comments to the Workshop Coordinator at opscoordinator@albanysymphony.com.