3rd Annual Choral Composition Competition

Postmark Deadline: April 30, 2008

Prize:
• $1,000.00 and at least two performances by Meistersingers
• Archival recording for winner's use toward publishing
• Possible commercial recording by Meistersingers

Submission Guidelines:
• Original Composition for 4-8 part a cappella choir (further divisi possible/range is not an issue)
• Sacred Text (include translation if not in English)
• 4-8 minutes long
• Composer must reside, or have been born in, California

Preferential consideration for new works as outlined below:
• World Premiere; followed by,
• United States Premier; then
• Western United States Premiere (minimum requirement)

Anonymous Submission
• Remove all names (except poet, if necessary) and identifying marks;
• Provide a sealed envelope containing your name, address, email, the title and performance history of the piece (if applicable), and phone number.
• Submit a legible, photo-copy ready, score with piano reduction for rehearsal purposes - Recording of any kind (MIDI, piano, etc.) is strongly encouraged but not required.
• If text is not in public domain, composer is responsible for including written permission to use it

Selection Process:
• The Music Director/Conductor shall review all scores received.
• A Selection Committee, consisting of members chosen by the Music Director/Conductor and Board, shall review many of the scores received
• The decision of the Music Director/Conductor and Selection Committee will be final.
• ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE 2008 COMPETITION: This concert will feature 21st century settings paired with Renaissance setting of the same text. While it is not absolutely necessary that the text be previously used, it is indeed helpful.

Other Items of Interest:
• The winning composition is scheduled to be performed in September of 2008 in the Southern California area. Meistersingers encourages the composer's attendance and cooperation in media publicity and press coverage.
• The winning composer must provide a final performance score by May 31st, 2008.
• Meistersingers shall make 32 copies for the chorus, director, and rehearsal accompanist.
• There are no restrictions according to race, sex, or age.
• Text may be in any language, however, see "Selection" Addendum above.
• If materials are desired to be returned, please enclose a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope.
• A composer may submit more than one piece.
• Meistersingers reserves the right not to select a winning composition and/or award a prize.
• Meistersingers retains discretion and the sole performance and recording rights for the winning piece for the 2008 calendar year.
• A brief description of Meistersingers, including Mission Statement and type of literature performed, can be found on their website: www.meistersingers.org