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GEORGE DUKE COMMISSIONING PRIZE

Each year, we present a commissioning competition for individuals who compose symphonic jazz.

Our Music Advisory Board determines the winner, who is then commissioned to write a new orchestral score. This newly commissioned work is premiered by the 68-piece Symphonic Jazz Orchestra in concert and is entered into the organization’s catalog of symphonic jazz commissions.

GUIDELINES

PRIZE: $5,000 commissioning prize to compose a new work for the 68-member Symphonic Jazz Orchestra (“SJO”).

PURPOSE:  To commission new orchestral work for the SJO, blending the worlds of jazz & classical music – and beyond.

 

The newly commissioned work will be premiered by the SJO and entered into the SJO’s catalog of symphonic jazz commissions.

Created in 2002, the 68-member SJO is dedicated to blending the worlds of jazz and classical music through its commissioning, performing and educational programs. Led by Music Director, Mitch Glickman, the ensemble has performed throughout Southern California with such leading guest artists as Keyon Harrold, Dave Grusin, Christian McBride, Raul Midon, Lee Ritenour, Ernie Watts, The Yellowjackets, Miguel Zenon, and our former Co-Music Director George Duke.

The composer agrees to assign the rental administration of commissioned work (the “Composition”) to Symphonic Jazz Orchestra Music (the “Administrator”), the publishing designee of the SJO.  Administrator will print all orchestra parts and scores. The composer will retain the copyright of the commissioned work.

ELIGIBILITY: No age or geographic restrictions.

 

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: August 15, 2023 (CLOSED)

MATERIAL TO BE SUBMITTED:

  • Completed application form: SJO's 8th Annual George Duke Commissioning Prize Entry Form

    • Representative score of ONE original instrumental work written since 2013. Ideally, this work is scored for full orchestra, chamber orchestra, or large ensemble that integrates elements of jazz or other related genres. Please include your name and the name of the piece. Please attach into the entry form in PDF format.

    • Recording of the work or an electronic realization (optional). Please attach an MP3 audio file.

    • Composer biography as well as a list of compositions.

  • Email info@sjomusic.org with any questions!

JUDGES: Members of the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra’s Music Advisory Board

ADMINISTRATION RIGHTS: Administrator shall have the exclusive rights to include the Composition into its catalog of commissioned works and to rent print versions of the Composition to other ensembles.

PREVIOUS WINNERS OF SJO'S GEORGE DUKE COMMISSIONING PRIZE

7th Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Christopher Zuar

6th Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Jihye Lee

5th Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Remy Le Boeuf

4th Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Daniel Szabo

3rd Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Patrick Gandy

2nd Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Scott Routenberg

1st Annual ASCAP Foundation/SJO Commissioning Prize Winner: Alan Chan

MUSIC ADVISORY BOARD

Billy Childs

Bob Mintzer

Christian McBride

Ernie Watts

John Clayton

Lesa Terry

Mitch Glickman

Peter Erskine

Rashid Duke

Russell Ferrante

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