The Second Ending Ensemble, directed by Ian Carleton Schaefer, invites applications for a new 10-minute orchestral commission, to be premiered June 14, 2026 at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, on a program with Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. One composer will be selected by the judging panel, receiving a $3,000 commission fee, payable upon delivery of score/parts. Instrumentation may use forces up to those of Mahler’s Symphony No. 1. Applicants must be eligible to work and be paid in the U.S and attend all rehearsals and the performance (June 10–14, 2026).
Eligibility
- Must be eligible to work and be paid in the U.S.
- Must attend all rehearsals and the performance (June 10–14, 2026).
How to Apply
Email seecallforscores@gmail.com with subject “Call For Scores” and include:
1. PDF bio + statement confirming eligibility.
2. PDF (max 250 words) describing how your proposed piece relates to Mahler’s First Symphony and the Second Ending Ensemble.
3. Two representative scores (PDF) + links to recordings (mp3/WAV) (Scores need not be for orchestra)
4. $30 fee via Venmo to @Ian-Schaefer-1 (include full name in memo).
Note: Remove your name and identifying information from all materials and file names.
Timeline
Deadline: January 15, 2026 (no exceptions).
Notification: February 15, 2026.
Final score/parts due: April 15, 2026.
Selection Panel
Hannah Ishizaki, Ian Carleton Schaefer (chair), Katherine Fong