One Voice Chorus of Charlotte, NC announces the Queer Composers Commission Competition, a $2000 prize for the commission of a new work for chorus. We specifically seek to amplify the work of composers who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+/queer community and write in any compositional style for voices. 

Composers are asked to submit a sample of two already existing works of any type for consideration. A confidential panel consisting of members of One Voice Chorus and community members along with the Artistic Director will review the works submitted and choose a winner, who will be awarded $2000 to compose a 4-6 minute work for SATB choir in honor of our 35th anniversary season. This new piece will be premiered by One Voice Chorus in its 36th season. It should be accessible to a non-auditioned chorus and have limited divisi and straightforward instrumentation.

We are devoted to investing in the further creation and dissemination of artworks by queer artists. We want to support the creation of works with subject matter specifically geared toward increasing understanding and acceptance of what it means to identify as queer, or exploring some aspect of queer culture, because that is our mission. Works which also use texts by LGBTQIA+/queer authors are highly encouraged. 

Application 

  • Two scores and recordings of two works for any instrumentation that have been completed within the past seven years. The recordings may be synthesized, but live recordings are preferred.
  • Resume and/or listing of relevant compositional activities
  • Composer must identify as a member of the queer community
apply Now

Commission

By accepting the prize, the winner agrees to compose an accessible 4-6 minute work for SATB choir with limited divisi and straightforward instrumentation, in collaboration and consultation with the Chorus and Artistic Director.

We are particularly interested in supporting the creation of works which include elements of storytelling, narrative, and/or first person accounts of any aspect of the queer experience. 

Pieces with texts in languages other than English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, or Latin should include a pronunciation guide (either written or recorded). 

Rights to texts must be cleared, and evidence of copyright holder’s permission must be shown. Composer will retain the copyright of the piece. One Voice Chorus will reserve the right to the world premiere of the piece.

The prize money will be distributed after the composition is complete. 

Timeline

November 1, 2024 – Applications due 

December 1, 2024 – Results announced

June 30, 2025 – Deadline for completion of the composition

July 30, 2025 – Prize money issued

December 2025 – Premiere

For more information or questions, please contact Cory Davis, Artistic Director, at cory.davis@onevoicechorus.com.