Queer Urban Orchestra is pleased to announce its 2027 Vanguard Composers Competition! This program is open to composers of any age who identify as LGBTQ+, from anywhere in the world. The winning work will be performed by Queer Urban Orchestra in June of 2027, and the composer will receive a $1,000 cash award, plus a small travel stipend of up to $250 to attend the performance (if available). Two runners-up will be selected for a reading on January 13, 2027. All composers who enter the competition are invited to participate in two virtual sessions with QUO’s artistic leadership and guests. QUO must be able to post its own recordings of any works it reads and/or performs on internet platforms.
Founded in 2009, Queer Urban Orchestra is the only orchestra specifically aligned with the LGBTQ+ community in the Northeast United States. This New York City-based community orchestra of over 100 volunteer musicians is dedicated to uplifting queer artistry.
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