The El Paso Society for Musicians of the Future (EPSMF) presents the first annual competition showcase for young composers. OM/NI – Original Music/New Ideas – fills a niche that reaches out to young composers and provides an opportunity to share original classical music. The competition was launched nationally in September 2017 to composers in two categories, the Junior Division (ages 9 to 16) and Emerging Composers (ages 17-25), for solo piano scores.
According to EPSMF vice-president, Stephen Jackson, “the extraordinary response to the inaugural launch of the OM/NI program brought together young composers from across the United States. We are honored and privileged to present a compelling selection of works by new voices in composition. Whether you are a fan of new music, a lover of classical music, a supporter of innovation in the arts, or just want to take a chance on exploring the creativity of America’s talented youth, you will surely find something to captivate you in this one of a kind concert.”
The following event is free and open to the public. Finalists and winners will be announced at the Competition Showcase as part of the Sounds of St. Mark’s Series on August 5, 2018. Finalists will be published in an OM/NI New Works Compilation. Awards will include cash prizes for the top three entries in each category. The audience will have a chance to participate in the Audience Choice Award by voting for their favorite new piano composition presented in this showcase.