Young Composers Initiative
Former CSO Mead Composer-in-Residence Jessie Montgomery and the Negaunee Music Institute invite young composers in the Chicago area to apply for the Young Composers Initiative (YCI). With Jessie Montgomery’s mentorship, selected composers will workshop new pieces of chamber music throughout the 2025/26 Season, culminating in a performance by musicians of the Civic Orchestra at Symphony Center on June 12, 2026.
The Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO is now accepting applications to join the Young Composers Initiative for the 2025/26 Season.
Eligibility
The YCI is open to composers of all abilities and experience levels who are currently enrolled in high school (grades 9-12) and reside in the City of Chicago or a Chicago suburb. Previous Young Composer Initiative participants are welcome to reapply, with a maximum of two years of participation if selected again.
Schedule
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Monday, September 15 |
Application Opens |
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Friday, November 14, 5:00pm |
Application Deadline |
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Monday, December 1 |
Application Result Notification |
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Saturday, January 17, 10:00am-4:00pm |
Coaching Day (in-person) |
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Saturday, February 14, 10:00am-4:00pm |
Coaching Day (in-person) |
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Saturday, March 14, 10:30am-4:30pm |
Practicum with Civic musicians and Jessie (in-person) |
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Saturday, April 18, 10:00am-4:00pm |
Coaching Day (via Zoom) |
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Week of May 18 |
Coaching Day (via Zoom, evening TBD) |
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Wednesday, June 10, 4:00pm-7:30pm |
Recording Session with Civic musicians and Jessie |
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Friday, June 12, 4:00pm-6:00pm |
Sound Check/Dress Rehearsal |
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Friday, June 12, 7:00pm |
Concert |
Attendance is required on all the dates listed above. Any known conflicts must be included on your application. On coaching days, participants will receive one-on-one instruction with Jessie, typically lasting one hour, either in-person or via Zoom as indicated. A detailed coaching schedule will be determined once program participants are selected.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following materials by Friday, November 14 at 5:00 PM through the online form below. Applications that do not follow instructions or meet eligibility requirements will not be considered.
1. Cover Letter
Please submit a one-page cover letter describing your current musical experience in as much detail as possible including a) your compositional background, b) a statement about why you would like to participate in this program, and c) a summary of the piece you would like to workshop or create as part of the YCI.
2. Work Samples
You have two options when submitting work samples.
Option 1: Submit work samples A and B.
If you are submitting a preexisting composition.
Option 2: Submit work samples C and D.
If you are new to composition.
A. A piece for chamber music, mixed ensemble or solo written by the applicant. Please include both the score and parts in (1) PDF.
B. A link to an audio or video performance of your piece. Live performances are preferred but a midi (computer generated) version is acceptable.
OR
C. If you are new to composing and have yet to compose a piece of music, please submit a link to a video that best demonstrates your artistic capabilities on your instrument. For example, a video of a recital or informal performance on your main instrument, either a solo or in a group/band setting.
D. A list of music you enjoy.
3. Letter of Recommendation
A letter of recommendation from a teacher.
4. Proof of Residency
Proof of residency in the City of Chicago or a Chicago suburb. A photo of a piece of mail is sufficient.
There is no fee to apply.
Previous Young Composers Initiative Participants
Sponsors
The Young Composers Initiative is generously supported by Margo and Mike Oberman.