General Composition Guidelines
Within the NCMTA, there are currently three levels of opportunity
for students interested in presenting a composition for evaluation.
Most of the local associations throughout the state
include a composition component as part of a larger annual Performance
Competition. Rules vary from group to group,with some associations requiring
recordings, some creating categories based on experience and/or level rather
than age, and some offering only constructive comments in lieu of ratings or
ranking. Across the board, however, the intent at the local level is to provide
the greatest possible support and encouragement to all entrants.
At the state level the Young Composers Competition
requires a recording to ensure that notation matches intended performance. One
Comment Sheet from a single judge provides a thorough analysis and critique of
each student’s composition. A conference concert of selected composition
generates widespread enthusiasm, not only for the accomplishment of each young
composer, but for the joy of composing itself. A reasonable registration fee of
$15 - $30 attracts beginning and experienced student composers alike, and the
September deadline appeals to teachers whose focus on composition is primarily
in the summer.
Entering the national (MTNA) Composition Competition
entitles the serious student to an in-depth critique of his/her work from each
of at least three master musicians / composers. Though registration fee
($50 - $100) is significantly higher in this competition, the possibility of
regional and national recognition is exciting. To showcase the outstanding
talent of state MTNA composition winners, a concert of their performances along
with the Commissioned Composer of the Year is a highlight of the annual NCMTA
conference.
However . . .
Competition provides an enticing incentive, a reason to write (or
at least a reason to “get it finished . . .!) but the ultimate goal of
Composition in North Carolina is education. To that end, the annual
conference sponsors workshop presentations on composition, and concerts that
highlight a variety of levels of achievement, guaranteed to inspire teachers
and students alike.
