The Colorado Wind Ensemble is issuing a call for scores by underrepresented composers to be performed and recorded by the Colorado Wind Ensemble during the 2025-26 season. We desire to encourage and promote composers from historically marginalized communities to write music for the Wind Band at a developmental grade level of 1-3. Submitted scores will be reviewed by members of a selection committee, and the selected piece will be programmed and recorded during the 2025-26 season. A professional recording of the work will be provided to the selected composer. In addition, the selected composer will receive a cash prize of $2000 and will be invited to participate in a two day, “Artist-in-Residence” at Metropolitan State University of Denver to work with the Colorado Wind Ensemble and interact with MSU Denver composition students (expenses paid, stipend provided).

While attendance is not required, it is highly encouraged. Applicants may be of any age or nationality. Visa support is not available to international participants.

Submission requirements:

  • Original compositions should be submitted with a PDF Score and Midi file.
  • Instrumentation requiring a minimum of 12 players will be considered (including “flex” scoring of at least four parts).
  • Applicants should include a brief artist’s statement which outlines their identity and connection to an underrepresented community.
  • Music of any length and difficulty of grade level 1-3 is accepted. (Works may be previously performed, recorded, published, awarded, etc.)

Please fill out the form below and submit by January 15, 2025

Composers of selected pieces will be notified via email by March 1, 2025. Performances and recordings will take place during the 2025-26 season.

For questions, please contact Jayne Copland (committee chair) via email at: coplandflutestudio@gmail.com