COMPOSERS’ COMPETITION

The third annual SA Composers’ Competition, presented by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra has been announced. The closing date for a five-to-15-minute work for symphony orchestra is October 31.

The competition is aimed at young composers to develop skills and recognise talent in the local creative music industry and will provide sought-after performance opportunities to composers. The two previous winners are Conrad Asman and Lize Briel.

First prize is R20 000, a one-year appointment as Resident Composer of the CPO which comprises a performance of the winning composition in a CPO concert, and one new commission, to be performed at the following year’s final round. Second prize is R10 000 with at least one public performance of the composition; and third prize is R5 000 with at least one public performance of the composition.

The works of all five finalists will be performed at the finalists’ concert on March 15, 2025, under the direction of Jeremy Silver. The closing date for the competition is Thursday, 31 October 2024. The competition is open to all South Africans not older than 35 years of age – those born no earlier than 31 October 1989.

Entry is free. To enter please read through this document. Take note that you are required to complete a Google form to enter. The link is provided in the document.

Enquiries may be made to Neil Robertson

All entries will be judged anonymously and only the orchestra librarian will be aware of identities to ensure confidentiality.