The ESO searches for its next Young Composer
One local high school student will win a $1,000 bursary
The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra will premiere one local student’s original score for more than 2,000 Edmontonians at Symphony Under the Sky 2012. As part of the Young Composers Project, the ESO invites high school students passionate about composing to apply for the rare opportunity to receive compositional mentorship.
This year’s Young Composer can look forward to working with Resident Composer Robert Rival over a period of six months. During this time, the student learns everything about writing for an orchestra − sketching ideas, building a solid structure, learning to write for all instruments, creating a professional score and individual parts, understanding the rehearsal process and, of course, basking in the glory of a world premiere.
"The ESO's Young Composers Project provides an incredible opportunity for young, aspiring composers to get their music performed publicly by a professional orchestra,” said Robert Rival. “To acquire this experience while still in high school is nothing short of incredible. I look forward to meeting this year's composer and guiding her/him through the process, from initial sketches to the highly anticipated world premiere at Symphony Under the Sky 2012."
This year’s mentee will also receive a $1,000 bursary towards post-secondary studies, helping the student take the next steps towards achieving his/her goals.
“This has been an incredible experience that I will cherish for many years to come,” said last year’s winner Andrew Reid. “This program was a very beneficial learning experience for me, and hearing my composition being played by such phenomenal musicians has truly been remarkable.”
Students can submit applications online until Dec. 2, 2011. They must provide:
- up to three sample compositions;
- a reference letter; and
- reasons they deserve to become the ESO’s next Young Composer.
