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BBC launches Young Composer 2020 competition

bbc proms

Are you a young composer? If so, the BBC wants you to enter its BBC Young Composer 2020 competition.

It was formerly known as the BBC Proms Inspire competition and has been responsible for launching many musical careers since it began in 1998.

If you don’t think of yourself as a composer, but create your own original music, then the BBC wants to hear from you. Entrants should be aged 12-18, of any technical ability, background, and musical influence.  You’ll need to submit an original composition and recording to enter the competition.

The compositions are judge anonymously and winners will get the opportunity to take part in a tailored development programme. This will involve working with a mentor composer on a project with the BBC Concert Orchestra, which will be performed and broadcast in a special young composers’ concert at the 2021 BBC Proms.

Composer & electronic artist Shiva Feshareki, a 2020 judge and 2014 competition winner says: “It is getting more and more important to understand music – and the world – as intersectional, so I am very happy to see the new direction of the BBC Young Composer, acknowledging the diverse breadth of musical styles and genres and how they connect.

“I’m very excited to see what the young composers will produce as the next generation of creatives.”

David Pickard, Director, BBC Proms says: “Having had the privilege in previous years of being a judge in our competition for young composers, I know what a wealth of talent exists amongst young practitioners. It has been a huge pleasure to see previous winners grow and develop as composers.

“The BBC is proud to be able to offer these mentorship opportunities to the next generation of musical innovators, and we hope this year’s relaunch of the competition encourages entries across all styles and genres.”

The competition’s judging panel is made up of renowned composers including Shiva Feshareki, Errollyn Wallen and Matthew Kaner as well as Director of the BBC Proms, David Pickard.

The closing date for entries is 5pm on the 11 June 2020.

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