MUSIC COMPOSITION is the process of creating a new piece of music. The composer (student submitting entry) is a person who expresses their own thoughts and ideas through the use of sound. A recording of the composition must be included.

To portray your original composition, consider the following musical styles and instruments: A cappella, blues, choral, country, electronic, hip hop, jazz, Latin, musical, orchestral, pop, R&B, religious, rock, symphonic/concert band and traditional. All instruments, sounds, styles and combinations are accepted.

Whether an entry displays formal composition technique or a simple approach, it will be judged primarily on how well the student uses their artistic vision to portray the theme, originality and creativity. Consider structure, melody, rhythm, instruments, lyrics, emotion, etc. to show a clear relation to the theme.

Digital technology and/or software can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry but may not provide the primary design and/or concept. Entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and methods used in the creation process, including any generative elements.

Audio recording (required for all entries):

• Student composers are not required to perform their composition and may submit an entry performed by an individual, group and/or make use of a sound library generated performance of a composed score.

• Software may be used to produce an audio recording. Entries containing algorithmic composition techniques are not accepted.

Music score/notation (required for middle and high school grade divisions only):

• Middle and high school grade divisions must include music score/notation, either traditional or tablature, or a written reflective statement (100 words or less).

• If submitting a reflective statement, it does not replace the required entry artist statement. The reflective statement must be distinct from the artist statement and must provide a technical musical explanation of how the music was created. Whereas the artist statement emphasizes the Reflections theme, a reflective statement emphasizes the musical elements in the creative process.

• Notation software may be used to create a score. Whether the score is hand-written or software-generated, appropriate instrumentation and voicing are required for the performance.

Copyright: Use of copyrighted material is prohibited. Plagiarized entries will be disqualified.

Suggestions for Audio/Visual Quality:

• Use a tripod to hold the camera still.

• Make sure there is plenty of lighting, especially if shooting indoors.

• Turn off all noise-making devices in the room (air conditioners, fans, telephones, etc.).

• Record a short test and listen to it. If needed, change the record volume or microphone location.

• Make sure the background music (if any) is audible on the recording.

• Allow for two seconds of silence at the beginning and end of your recording.

All participants must also follow the official rules for participation.