50 Young Composers Honored by ASCAP and BMI

In late May, fifty young composers were honored by the charitable arms of the American performing rights organizations ASCAP and BMI. Keeping with their tradition of supporting composers in their early career stages, both organizations collectively distributed approximately $60,000 in scholarships, grants, and cash awards. Submission guidelines vary—applicants to the BMI Student Composer Awards must be age 26 or younger, while ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards applicants must be 30 or younger. Nevertheless, combined submissions nearly reached the four-digit mark, providing substantial evidence that the study of traditional music composition has not been snuffed by the supposed ennui of youth culture.

Both organizations fête the winners with award ceremonies and receptions. Beyond the expected pomp and circumstance that accompanies any such ceremonial, these annual affairs are charged with the thrill experienced by the young composers as they are recognized for their talents by the concert music establishment. The positive vibe permeates the air. Everyone in attendance, from the awardees themselves and members of their family to Pulitzer Prize winners and publishing bigwigs, seems to succumb to the excitement of the moment. And afterwards, I leave already looking forward to next year's parties.

ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Award Winners: