Musiqa is accepting applications for their Emerging Composer Commission Program. Musiqa’s Emerging Composer Commission program identifies promising artistic talent and provides performance opportunities with an innovative, contemporary music chamber ensemble. The selected composer will receive: A commission for a 4-7 minute work to be premiered at a Musiqa performance during the 2026-2027 season in Houston, TX; a $2000 stipend; a $500 travel stipend; and a professional audio recording of the commission.

Eligibility

• Self-motivated with a strong interest in contemporary music.
• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in music, preferably in music composition, completed within the past five years.
• Authorization to work in the United States.
  • Musiqa cannot guarantee a work visa for foreign-born applicants. Visas and other required paperwork must be secured prior to being considered for this commission.

Application Materials

• Two (2) anonymized scores or excerpts (PDF format only) with accompanying recordings (MP3 format only). MP3s should each be under 5 minutes in length, with the page and/or measure numbers for recorded excerpts identified in the file title. PDF and MP3 file titles must contain only the work’s title and page or measure numbers: files with titles containing the composer’s name will not be considered. 
• Resume or CV (PDF format only).  
• Completed application form and checklist. 

Read the complete guidelines here.