Willoughby Symphony Orchestra is proud to host The Young Composer Award – an annual national competition established 21 years ago to provide young Australian composers with the unique opportunity to compose for a symphony orchestra.
The Young Composer Award provides the award recipient with both a concert performance and live recording of the successful composition by the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra.
The award provides invaluable experience and relationships toward refining original orchestral works alongside a respected conductor and accomplished orchestra.
In a new initiative for 2025, all entrants will be invited to participate in a one-day workshop with the adjudicating panel to discuss ways to improve future submissions. Up to 10 compositions will be selected for the one-day workshop at the discretion of the adjudicating panel, and selected composers may apply to have their workshop travel expenses subsidised.
“(The Young Composer Award is) a truly unique award. The possibility to have your work performed by a full orchestra and for the works to be recorded is absolutely incredible. The opportunity to be close to direct and immediate feedback on your work was amazing.” – Klearhos Murphy – 2023 Winner
2025 PRIZES & OPPORTUNITIES
The national Young Composer Award is generously supported by Mark Wakely in memory of Steven Alward. The award winner receives:
- A cash prize of $5,000
- A world-premiere performance and live recording of the award-winning composition with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra on Sunday 4 May 2025 at 2pm
- Workshop rehearsal of the composition with the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra
At the adjudication panel’s discretion, The Young Composer Award program also offers:
- Highly Commended Award cash prize amount of $1,500
- Encouragement Award cash prize amount of $500
Note: Highly Commended and Encouragement Awards do not include performance or recording opportunities.
ELIGIBILITY
To enter, applicants must be:
- Under the age of 35 (born on or after 1 January 1990)
- An Australian citizen
- Currently residing in Australia
For more information click here
