You can write in any style for any of our ensembles, which include both orchestras, Chamber Choirs, Wind Band, Brass Band, Jazz Orchestra, Saxophone Choir, Flute Choir and Clarinet Choir. A full list of our ensembles can be found at www.uobmusicsociety.org.uk. The competition will be judged by two CompositionSpecialists of the Music Department.
If you are interested in applying, please submit a completed final score that follows the criteria below:
A short piece, between 6-10 minutes long
Suitable for the chosen ensemble (with appropriate instrumentation)
Takes the size and ability of the chosen ensemble into consideratio
Clear and neatly presented
Entries can be submitted via email to the Music Office (musicboxoffice@contacts.bham.ac.uk) in PDF form by Midday on Wednesday 17th February. Please include the entry form (which can be downloaded here) when submitting your composition.
An overall winner will then be selected, and their composition will be performed by the chosen ensemble in the Spring Term. The winner will also receive a certificate and be named on the website. A Highly Commended prize may also be awarded to up to two additional compositions – these may also have the opportunity to be performed.
Approximate sizes of ensembles are as follows:
Orchestras - Variable in size according to requirement of the work Chamber Choirs - Either SATB or SSA with 30-40 voices Brass Band - Around fifty players; a very large band Wind Band - Well over 100 players available Jazz Orchestra - Standard 20-player line-up (can include a vocal part if you would like to)
Saxophone Choir - Over 30 players, all saxophone types Flute Choir - Over 30 players, piccolo/alto flute available
Clarinet Choir - Over 15 players, Eb/bass clarinet available
Please email me or one of our ensemble managers if you have any questions.
Last years’ winner was Chris Allen with his composition ‘The Sirens’, which would have been performed by Brass Band in late March.
Best Wishes,
Charlie Westbrook