A commission is more than a piece of music — it's a stage, an audience, and a community ready to champion a new voice. We're inviting composers of every background, age, and nationality to share their vision with us. The selected composer will receive a $1,000 commission and a world premiere, performed by musicians who can't wait to bring their work to life.

What We're Looking For
An original work of approximately five minutes for string orchestra, written in any style that reflects the spirit of the show title "REFLECTIONS". The piece should be approximately Grade 3-4. Featured and solo passages are welcome, and electronics may be included as accompaniment to the live ensemble.

What to Submit
A cover letter with your contact information and a brief biography; a written proposal describing your work and how it connects to "REFLECTIONS"; and two samples of recent compositions (works for strings are encouraged but not required). Sound samples (live or computer-generated) are encouraged. If your proposal includes an electronic component, please include a sample of a work with electronics. There is no submission fee.

Key Dates

Proposals due: July 31, 2026, 11:59 PM MDT

Composer announced: by August 15, 2026

Completed work delivered: no later than January 15, 2027

Premiere: May 15, 2027 — REFLECTIONS, Denver, Colorado

The Commission
A total award of $1,000 (half payable upon completion of the commission contract, and the remaining half upon delivery and acceptance of all completed materials.)

Ready to Add Your Voice?
Submit your proposal via email to derek.hebert@mhfb.org.