Applications Due: September 1, 2020
The Talea Ensemble is pleased to announce our inaugural commissioning program for an early-career composer in the 2020-21 season. Talea will commission the selected composer to create a work for the ensemble, to be premiered in March 2021 in New York City. We would like to work with a composer in the early stages of their career for whom this commission represents a significant professional opportunity.
We welcome composers of all musical styles and genres, ages (18+), and educational backgrounds. Composers who identify as Black, Indigenous, and/or People of Color, as well as women and and gender non-binary composers, are strongly encouraged to apply.
The selected composer will receive:
A commissioning fee of $1,500 for a new chamber ensemble work of 10-15 minutes, a $500 travel stipend to work with Talea in New York City and attend the piece’s premiere, audio documentation of the premiere performance, and promotional support.
We recognize the time and effort it takes to submit your materials for consideration; though we are only able to select one composer in the first year of this program, our team is always seeking out new voices in our repertoire and eager to get to know your work!
Feel free to reach out to alex@taleaensemble.org with any questions.
ELIGIBILITY:
Composers of all nationalities and ages (18+) are welcome to apply.
DATES & DEADLINES:
September 1, 2020: Application due
Late September 2020: Notification of selected composer
March 20, 2021: Premiere in New York City
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Through the application, we want to get to know you, your previous work, and your ideas for a collaboration with Talea. It’s free to apply, and applications are due September 1, 2020.
Here are the main application components:
2 Work Samples: We’ll ask you to share audio/video links and a score to an ensemble work (for 3-15 musicians) and any original work of your choice. We’re looking to get to know your creative voice and the kinds of ideas you might bring to an ensemble piece for Talea.
Project Statement: In under 300 words, tell us about your ideas for a new work for Talea!
Background: CV, resume, or bio – it’s up to you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
How do you define emerging?
We are looking to work with a composer of any age in the early stages of their career for whom this commission represents a significant professional opportunity.
If chosen, would I have to travel to New York for the premiere?
It’s not required, but we’re encouraging the selected composer to join us in New York City leading up to the premiere. At this time, we’re able to offer a $500 stipend towards the costs of travel and accommodation in New York.
Am I eligible if I’m a student?
Yes, as long as you are over 18.
Will you consider ideas for works with non-traditional notation and/or electronics?
Yes!
What if I don’t have a live recording my work samples?
We understand that it’s not always possible to submit recordings of your previous work. While we prefer live performances, we’ll consider MIDI renditions if a recording is not available.
Do you expect the COVID-19 pandemic to affect plans for the live performance of this piece?
As of now, we’re planning to premiere the piece in March 2021, but we recognize that circumstances may change. If we’re unable to perform the piece in March, we’ll find another performance date in the 2021-22 season.
