Choral Composition Competition 2026

Level

The winning composition must be at a technical level that makes performance possible by a volunteer adult SATB chorus of approximately 100 voices. The Capitol Hill Chorale rehearses Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 10:00 p.m.

Voicing

Voicing should be SATB. Extensive solo passages are discouraged. Some divisi will be allowed.

Moderate tessitura and harmonic language should be used for all parts:

• Sopranos: C4–G5
• Altos: G3–D5
• Tenors: C3–F4
• Basses: G2–D4

Entries must be original compositions. Arrangements of works by other composers will not be accepted.

Text

• The theme of the Chorale’s March 2027 concert is “Vox Populi”, or “Voice of the People”. Works that interpret or align with this theme are encouraged, but not required.
• Texts with evocative imagery that tells a compelling story are highly recommended.
• Texts that rhythmically flow with the music are encouraged.
• Texts must be in the Public Domain or the composer’s own creation. If neither, the submission must include documentation confirming that the composer has secured permission for public performance. Any costs related to securing such permission are the sole responsibility of the composer.
• If text is not in English, please include an English translation with your submission.

Accompaniment and Length

• Compositions may be a cappella or accompanied by piano.
• Compositions should be at least 3 minutes but no more than 6 minutes in duration.

Submission Details

• Compositions do not need to be newly created; however, all submissions must not have been previously adjudicated or performed in public.
• No Artificial Intelligence (AI) should be used in the creation or production of the compositions.
• Electronic submissions (PDF) are required. Audio files in MP3 format are strongly encouraged.
• Scores must be clear and ready for duplication and performance, produced using a standard music notation program.
• Please remove all identifying marks from submitted scores — judging will be conducted anonymously. The names of all participants will be held in confidence during adjudication.
• No more than two compositions will be accepted from a single composer.
• The Chorale is committed to supporting, performing, and uplifting music by composers traditionally underrepresented in classical settings and encourages submissions from composers of all backgrounds.

Evaluation

The winning composition will be selected by the Chorale’s Artistic Director, Frederick Binkholder, and Kevin Siegfried, the Chorale’s Composer-in-Residence. This evaluation will consider the quality of the piece and its suitability for a successful performance by the Chorale.

The winning piece and composer will be announced by email and social media by January 2027. All decisions made by the judges are final. Should the compositions submitted not meet the standards set forth, the Capitol Hill Chorale reserves the right to withhold the award.

Copyrights

The Capitol Hill Chorale shall retain unlimited performance and mechanical rights of performances and recordings made by the Capitol Hill Chorale. The composer shall retain all other copyright, performance, and mechanical rights to their works.