NFMC Junior Composers Competition

Application Deadline:
January 15, 2025
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Fee:
$20
​This is a wonderful opportunity for young composers! Compositions may be submitted for any type of orchestration. A PDF of the score and an MP3 will be required along with the application.

Students are separated into age-based classes and have the potential of receiving different awards along the way, including their Federation Ratings and Cups.

Student Classes

  • Class I: 9 years of age or younger. Awards include 1st Place $150, 2nd $125, and 2 incentive awards at $100.

  • Class II: Ages 10-12. Awards include 1st Place $175, 2nd $125, and 2 incentive awards at $100.

  • Class III: Ages 13-15. Awards include 1st Place $225, 2nd $175, 3 incentive awards at $125, and Pierson Award at $150.

  • Class IV: Ages 16-18. Awards include 1st Place $300, 2nd $200, 4 incentive awards at $150, Outstanding String Composition at $250, Outstanding Piano Composition at $150, and Olga Nelson Award at $150.

Ratings & Cups

Points are awarded as follows:

8 Points - Superior Rating for Composition with 2 or more instruments

7 Points - Superior Rating for Composition with 1 instrument

6 Points - Excellent Rating, etc.

Students receive their first cup when they have received 15 points total, which takes between 2-3 years of participating if Superior ratings are awarded.