The custom of singing Christmas carols brings joy to the holiday season unlike any other tradition. And every December VocalEssence and the American Composers Forum celebrate this tradition in their own unique way by championing today’s composers, exploring new works, and rediscovering lesser-known works of the past. Through the Welcome Christmas Carol Contest, VocalEssence and the Forum provide composers with the opportunity to compose a modern-day carol.
Application Information
The contest is open to composers of all ages, and the 2019 Contest Guidelines require writing a carol for SATB chorus and violin. Each year, the contest has produced wonderful new settings of familiar texts and carols based on existing poems and original texts, each year with a different instrument.
What to Expect if Your Piece is Selected
The two winners will each receive a prize of $1,000, and the winning carols will be premiered at the December 7, 8, 13, and 15, 2019 Welcome Christmas concerts featuring the VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers. The performances will be recorded for national broadcast in 2020 via American Public Media. The winners are invited to attend the rehearsals and performances at their own expense, and will have the opportunity for radio interviews as well as other media coverage and promotion.