RED NOTE 2027: U.S. festival opens global chamber, orchestra and choir composition contest
Three different musical categories
RED NOTE New Music Festival at Illinois State University is inviting composers worldwide to apply for its 2027 competition, with a November 1, 2026 deadline. Chamber, orchestra and chorus are adjudicated separately, each with a winner's cash prize of US$1,000 and a performance expected at the festival on March 25, 2027. It is an open composition contest rather than a year-long academic appointment, and selected composers may have their work played in a genuine contemporary-music concert programme.
Comply with each ensemble's limitations
Chamber music may involve one to sixteen performers and must be within fifteen minutes. Orchestral works should last no longer than twelve minutes and remain within the festival's listed resources, while a work for the mixed choir has a six-minute limit and particular voicing and publication conditions. The fact that a score is innovative does not override instrument availability, electronics restrictions or practical rehearsability. Applicants should download the category-specific rules and avoid entering a string quartet in a choral category simply to increase their chances.
Anonymous PDF and entry charge
Composers send anonymised PDF scores and the requested audio demonstration through the dedicated competition forms, removing identifying details from both the score and metadata. The organiser states an entry charge of US$25 for a first score and US$20 for each additional score, with possible assistance in cases of financial hardship. These are non-refundable review fees, not a deposit on an eventual commission. The selection announcement is anticipated in December 2026; not every finalist receives a cash award.
Track record of a university festival
The RED NOTE festival is an established Illinois State University School of Music event, now entering its twentieth season and historically featuring specialist ensembles and prominent contemporary composers. Its official competition portal names a real department, festival performances, adjudication programme and an institutionally controlled application form. It provides a more reliable basis for eligibility and repertoire than third-party re-postings of old editions.
Official organiser application and rules
Information reviewed 23 October 2026. Verify current local deadlines, eligibility, entry and participation costs, travel and audition requirements, copyrights and contract conditions directly with the official organiser before submission.