Composition Rules and Guidelines

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Philosophy of Composition

Many future composers are among today’s music students. The purpose of the composition category is to encourage and motivate students to create music as well as to perform it, thereby developing a valuable partnership. The range and richness of the musical mind is expanded with the acquisition of compositional skills, paving a path to the life-long enjoyment of music.

Students may participate in one or both of the following options:

Option 1 - Composition Performance & Evaluation

This option is in conjunction with the May/June Piano Auditions. Student will perform their own composition in addition to the piano syllabus requirements for their audition grade. Composition may be any level of difficulty and need not conform to the performance level of the student.

  • Composition will be written for piano solo only.
  • Manuscript will be handwritten by student or computer generated on 8 ½ X 11” VERTICAL manuscript paper.
  • Student’s name and age and teacher number must be on the manuscript.
  • One copy of the manuscript must be brought to the auditions.
  • Suggested length is between eight and thirty-two measures. Each measure or line must be numbered.
  • Memory is optional.
  • Evaluation will be primarily on piano composition performance with positive encouragement and comments given on the student’s composition.
  • Use Piano Audition application form and fill in the appropriate column for Option 1 Composition. No additional fee is required

Awards:

  • A gold seal will be affixed to the Audition Certificate.

Option 2 – Composition Competition: The Eric Steiner Memorial Awards

This option is separate from the Piano Auditions and has a January 31 deadline.

  • Composition may be for piano, keyboard or piano ensemble (instrumental, vocal, etc.)
  • Manuscript must be handwritten or computer generated by the student on 8 ½ X 11” VERTICAL manuscript paper with the students name and age on it.
  • There is no restriction on length.
  • Application forms will be mailed to all MEA members in the fall Glissando issue.
  • The fee $20 per entrant.
  • Send two copies of the manuscript, one copy of either a cassette tape or CD of the piece performed by the student, and application form with $20 fee postmarked by January 31 to : Ruth Pasquariello, Composition Chair.

Awards:

  • A “Recognition of Merit in Composition” certificate and comprehensive evaluation will be given to each participant.
  • All student composers will be invited to perform their compositions at an MEA Student Recital.
  • Outstanding compositions will be recognized with a monetary award.
  • Winners will perform at the Young Artist Winner’s Recital where they will receive their awards.
  • Compositions will be compiled into a booklet for distribution to all participants. Additional copies will be available for a photo copying fee.