Submission Deadline: August 12, 2026 (Closed)
The Newline Music Initiative 2026 Saxophone Quartet Composition Competition invites composers from around the world to submit original works for saxophone quartet.
The competition is dedicated to discovering and recognizing distinctive new music for the saxophone quartet while encouraging composers to explore the ensemble’s broad expressive, technical, and timbral possibilities. Submissions may represent any musical language, style, or aesthetic, with particular emphasis placed on originality, compositional craft, effective ensemble writing, and artistic identity.
All eligible submissions will be evaluated by a panel of musicians and composers. One work will be selected as the First Prize Winner, recognizing a composition that demonstrates exceptional musical imagination, clarity of artistic vision, and a compelling approach to the saxophone quartet.
Through this competition, Newline Music Initiative seeks to support the creation of new repertoire, provide composers with meaningful professional recognition, and contribute to the continued development of contemporary saxophone quartet music.
Instrumentation: Soprano, Alto, Tenor, and Baritone Saxophone (SATB).
Original compositions only; arrangements are not eligible.
Suggested duration: 4-12 minutes.
Works may be previously performed but should preferably be unpublished.
One or multiple submissions per composer may be permitted.
Submit a full PDF score and, when available, an audio recording or MIDI mock-up.
Scores should be clearly engraved and performance-ready.
Extended techniques are permitted but should be clearly explained in performance notes.
Selected composer(s) may be asked to provide individual performance parts.
Copyright remains entirely with the composer.
Submission does not transfer publication, recording, or performance rights unless separately agreed upon.
The organization reserves the right not to select a work if submissions do not meet the required artistic or technical standard.
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