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 2024/25 Season, culminating in a performance by musicians of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago at Symphony Center on May 23, 2025.
Congratulations to this year’s Young Composers Initiative participants!
Clara Frantzen (18), Oak Park & River Forest High School
Marilyn Gans (18), Home School
Gloria Kravchenko (17), Chicago Academy for the Arts
Christopher Mertz (14), Adlai E. Stevenson II High School
Malik Ali Muhammad (16), Muhammad University of Islam
Sylvia Pine (13), Home School
Applications are now closed for the 2024/25 Season of the Young Composers Initiative.
Eligibility
The YCI is open to composers of all abilities and experience levels who have not yet completed their senior year of high school and reside in the City of Chicago or a Chicago suburb. Previous Young Composers Initiative participants are welcome to reapply.
Schedule
Wednesday, August 21, 12:00pm - Application Opens
Friday, October 4, 5:00pm CST - Application Deadline
Friday, October 11 - Applicants Result Notification
Saturday, October 26, 10:30am-4:30pm - Coaching Day
Saturday, November 16, 10:30am-4:30pm - Coaching Day
Saturday, December 14, 10:30am-4:30pm - Coaching Day
Saturday, February 1, 10:30am-4:30pm - Practicum & Methods Day
Saturday, March 22, 10:30am-4:30pm - Coaching Day
Saturday, May 10, 10:30am-4:30pm - Coaching Day – Composition and parts finalized
Thursday, May 22, 4:00pm-7:00pm Rehearsal & Recording
Friday, May 23, 4:00pm-6:00pm Sound Check & Dress Rehearsal
Friday, May 23, 7:00pm - Concert
Attendance on the dates above is required and we encourage you to include any known conflicts in your application. On coaching days, participants will have one-on-one instruction time with Jessie either in-person or via Zoom. These lessons typically last approximately one hour and will occur during the time block held on each “Coaching Day”. A specific schedule for coaching will be determined once program participants are selected.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following materials by 5:00pm CST on Friday, October 4 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 three options when submitting work samples.
Option 1: Submit work samples A and B.
Option 2: Submit work sample C.
Option 3: Submit work samples D and E.
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. A rendering of a composition made on a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) such as Garage Band, Logic, Reaper, Ableton Live, etc. If you choose this option, please also submit a link to the DAW project file/session. (two files total)
OR
D. If you are new to composing and have yet to compose a piece of music, please submit a video (file or link) 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.
E. A brief (maximum 50 words) description of the type of music you enjoy, and why.
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 state/school issued ID, or 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.