NEW WORKS 2026 Call For Scores
The Portland Symphonic Choir invites composers to submit scores for its 2026 New Works, fostering the creation of new music for classically-oriented large choirs.
Three works will be selected for the PSC Summer Sings New Works Reading Session—an informal, collaborative forum designed to encourage exploration, feedback, and artistic dialogue. From these three featured compositions, one will be chosen for premiere during Portland Symphonic Choir’s 2026–27 season. Each composer selected for the reading session will receive a $300 stipend. The composer of the work chosen for premiere will receive an additional $200 honorarium, along with a live recording of the performance.
Composers of all ages and nationalities are encouraged to apply. Particular consideration will be given to historically underrepresented composers, including BIPOC, LGBTQI+, and women composers. All application materials must be submitted electronically.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:
Composers may submit up to two representative works. Submissions must be unpublished and may not have received a prior public premiere.
Works must be written for unaccompanied SATB choir or SATB with piano accompaniment and may not exceed six minutes in length.
Vocal writing may include limited divisi and should be suitable for a large choir of 80+ singers.
Texts may be sacred or secular and in any language.
Scores must be submitted as PDF files.
An acoustic or MIDI recording of each work must be provided in MP3 format.
All materials must be received no later than July 1, 2026.
All submissions must be made through the New Works Submission Link
The panel of judges will consist of the Artistic Director plus two professional musicians who are not affiliated with Portland Symphonic Choir. The three finalists will be notified by July 31, 2026. The winning composition will be chosen after the Summer Sings Reading Session.
HOW TO SUBMIT
Complete the submission form by clicking the link below. Composers must be able to upload a PDF of the score and an audio file. SUBMISSIONS CLOSE ON JULY 1, 2026.