MTANSW Composer Competition

We are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting two distinct creative competitions in 2027 to celebrate musical talent and innovation across the state, ensuring representation and opportunity for schools, studios, and communities within both metropolitan and rural NSW

Composer Competition Rules

Prize money includes a total of $1450 to be distributed as follows:

• Age category 1:   $300                    
• Age category 2:   $450                    
• Age category 3:   $700

Overview

• The competition is open to students of all teachers, regardless of whether they are members of the Music Teachers’ Association of NSW.
• Compositions that have previously won an award in any competition are not eligible for entry.
• The Music Teachers’ Association of NSW reserves the right to not award a prize if a suitable standard is not met, or to divide a prize equally among joint winners.
• The adjudicator's decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
• Prizes will be awarded at the biannual MTA Conference. Winners are expected to attend the conference in person to receive their prize, if at all possible.
• The winning compositions will be showcased digitally at the conference.
• Composers may submit up to two entries, each with a different piece and instrument. Note that each piece requires a separate entry form and fee.

Composition Categories Include

1. Solo piano
2. Solo organ
3. Solo voice with lyrics with or without keyboard accompaniment.

Note: Lyrics do not need to be authored by the entrant, but permission should be sought by the entrant to use any words still in copyright.

4. A choral work for SATB with lyrics with or without keyboard accompaniment

Note: Lyrics do not need to be authored by the entrant, but permission should be sought by the entrant to use any words still in copyright.

5. A solo wind, brass or string instrument with or without keyboard accompaniment
6. Any type of ensemble of not more than six instrument types of the composer's choice.
7. A solo percussion instrument or a percussion ensemble of not more than four instruments.

Submission Format

• All submissions must include a written or printed score and be accompanied by a recording [which may be computer generated]. A programme note must also be provided.
• If the score uses non-standard notation, an explanation of such notation must be included before the first page of the score.
• If a vocal item uses a text in a non-English language, a translation of the text must be provided.
• Scores must be neat and legible with numbered bars and pages and submitted in PDF format.
• Entrants will receive a written report and a certificate.

Submission Application Forms

The Online Portal will open in the coming months

About the Adjudicator

TBC

All enquiries can be directed to info@mtansw.org,au