The South Carolina Music Educators Association (SCMEA) Orchestra Division has a yearly Composition Contest for the Sight Reading portion of our Concert Performance Assessment. We are currently seeking original compositions specifically written for 6th–12th grade string orchestras that meet our established grade-level criteria. Submitted works will be evaluated by experienced music educators, and monetary awards will be presented to composers whose compositions are selected.
Guidelines can be found on our website and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out!
Submitted Works
- Instrumentation: String Orchestra
- When submitting, the composer must designate the grade level in which the piece is intended.
- Before submitting, please ensure that your composition clearly reflects the appropriate musical and technical demands as requested in the guidelines. Submissions that do not follow the requirements may be sent back to the composer for revisions or dismissed from the competition.
- The evaluating committee has the authority to move a submitted composition to another graded level if it is best suited in a different graded level.
- Scores and parts must be included, in a format that is easily readable by young, student musicians. Composer names CANNOT be visible on any parts or scores.
- Composers may submit as many compositions as they wish.
- Compositions may be resubmitted the following year if not previously selected.
- Composers must complete the agreement for each piece submitted.
- Required: an electronic copy of the piece in pdf and xml.
Age and Nationality Restrictions
- Nationality: Open to international applicants
Cash Prize
- Yes, honorarium ranges from $150–$400 depending on grade level