London Chamber Orchestra Opens Applications for Emerging Composer Scheme

Hosted by the London Chamber Orchestra between June and September, 2022, five emerging composers aged 16+ will participate in the LCO New program.

The selection panel is comprised of composers Graham Fitkin, Blasio Kavuma, and current LCO composer-in-residence Freya Whaley-Cohen. Whaley-Cohen will also play a central role in the delivery of the program, as she will facilitate the three collaborative workshops for the successful applicants.

LCO New is aimed at young composers who have never had their work performed by professional musicians. The program will give composers the opportunity to hear their work played by an orchestra for the first time. At the conclusion of the program, the five composers will each produce a new piece which will be premiered at the first concert of the LCO's 2022/23 season. The works will also be recorded.

The scheme has a focus on accessibility: there is no cost to apply, and the successful applicants will also be reimbursed for any childcare or transport costs incurred as a result of participating.

"LCO New is about finding the most exciting emerging talent and, wherever possible, removing any barriers to participation," said Elise Campbell, the LCO's Diversity, Inclusivity, and Education Officer.

"With this in mind, there is no upper age limit, and applicants won’t need to read music or write a score and we will offer a long application window to give composers the time and space to submit their work."

Applications close on March 18, 2022. You can read more and apply, here.