This prestigious award of £3500, generously sponsored by Neil Lawson-May is now in its 7th year and attracts a large number of entries from all over the world.

There is also a special £500 Solent Music Festival Prize. The award is open to composers of all ages and nationalities.

The work must be a set of variations on any theme by Beethoven
To be composed for either solo piano, violin and piano duo or cello and piano duo

Duration: 8-15 minutes
£15 application fee
Please submit under own name
Deadline for submissions: 15 February 2027
Results announcement: 15 March 2027
Works must not have been previously performed in public or recorded for public distribution

The world premiere of main award winner’s work will be given at the 2027 Solent Music Festival (31 May – 6 June).