Applications for our Emerging Composer Commission are currently closed. Check back in July 2026 for more details!

As part of our mission to expand the reed quintet’s repertoire and support the next generation of American composers, Fivemind Reeds is proud to announce the Emerging Composer Commission! We’re looking for composers to submit their work for consideration for a commissioned work to be performed during our 2027/28 season!

Guidelines for Composers

  • Composers can be any age or identity, and must be currently enrolled in a university degree program, or a maximum of five years out of your most recent degree program.*

    • Works by historically underrepresented composers are strongly encouraged.

  • Composers must reside in the United States to be eligible.

*Degrees in composition are not a requirement. Student composers may be enrolled in any university degree program.
Composers previously commissioned by Fivemind Reeds are not eligible to apply.
Past Call for Scores winners or honorable mentions are eligible to apply.

Requirements for submission

  • Composers must submit:

    • Three scores representing your best work, along with corresponding recordings.

      • Computer generated mockups are acceptable.

    • A one page resumé.

    • A short (no more than 250 words) biography.

    • Links to any online presence (website, YouTube channel, social media platforms, etc.)

composers selected will…

  • Receive a commission of $1,000 for a 5-8 minute work for reed quintet.*

  • Receive opportunities to workshop their piece with members of Fivemind.

  • Be given a feature on Fivemind’s social media platforms, including interviews and composer spotlights.

  • Have their work premiered by Fivemind Reeds during their 2027/28 concert season, along with a complementary recording of the premiere.

  • Have their work included in future Fivemind concert programs.

*Fivemind’s standard instrumentation (in score order) is:
Oboe/English horn, B-flat clarinet, soprano/alto saxophone, bassoon, and bass clarinet (with low C)

The timeline

Application opens: 12:01 AM PST, July 1st, 2026

Application closes: 11:59 PM PST, December 31st, 2026

One composer will be selected to receive this commission. Results will be announced via email and social media by February 1st, 2027.

To apply, please fill out this form!