Composers’ Academy FAQ
How long does the programme run for?
The Composers’ Academy runs for one year, starting in September.
How many places are available?
The Composers Academy has three places for emerging composers each year.
Where does the programme take place?
This programme comprises of three workshops and two rehearsals that culminate in a concert at the Royal Festival Hall in London. There might be some masterclasses that take place online but these will be few. You will need to be able to travel to London to take part.
If I live abroad, am I still eligible to apply?
Maybe. If you currently live, study, and/or are from overseas, you will need to demonstrate that you will be available for the duration of the programme, with a valid visa (if applicable), and will be able to come to the UK for the workshops and rehearsals.
The Philharmonia is not able to cover the cost of overseas travel.
How do I know if my visa is valid?
If you are in the UK on a Tier 4 student visa, you are responsible for ensuring that you comply with the terms of your visa i.e. you are still in education and will be for the duration of the programme.
What do I need to get ready for the application?
You will need:
- Three separate scores and audio files of your work
- A Cover Letter (optional)
Do I have to upload a cover letter or CV?
The choice is yours. We do give you the option to upload a cover letter but it must include the following points:
- Your background and work as a composer
- Challenges you may have faced in becoming a composer
- Why you have applied for this programme
- What specific benefits you hope to gain from the programme
If you choose not to upload a cover letter you can answer questions based on the above points. There are questions that allow you to include information that would normally appear on a CV.
How many pages are in the application?
There are seven pages in the application.
What if I have a problem with the application form?
Please contact composers@philharmonia.co.uk if you have any issues with the application form. Most information about the programme can be found on the website or on this page.
There’s an Equity, Diversity and Inclusion form, is this part of the application form?
Yes, it is. The information that we collect will form part of your application and will also help us to know who is applying for our programme.
Will I submit audio files and scores?
Yes, you must submit audio files and scores in your application. Please note that you must not write your name in the name of the audio file, the file name of the score, or on the score as this part of the recruitment process is anonymous.
Your audio files can be in these formats: mp3, m4a, wav, wma
Your score should be a pdf.
When is the deadline?
To be confirmed
What’s new since last year?
- There is a new application form
- You will now need to upload your music rather than send a link to it
- You will have the option to either upload a cover letter or answer questions
I applied last year, am I able to apply again?
Yes, of course. We welcome submissions from new and returning applicants.
What do you mean by the term ‘emerging’?
We are unlikely to appoint applicants who are long-standing or established composers as this programme is designed to support those in the early stages of their career. This includes those who may be coming to a career in composition in later life.
Composers working towards a PhD are welcome to apply. Equally, given its purpose to help establish your career, this opportunity is only for those aged 18 and above.
Please note, this opportunity is not open to those studying at Undergraduate or Masters level. If you are still studying, we recommend that you focus on all that your college or university can offer, and you’re welcome to apply in the future.
How is the programme made fair to all?
The Philharmonia is proud to have signed up to the Fair Access Principles. This ensures that our programme:
- is free to enter
- encourages entry that is regardless of age, education and qualification level
- offers a bursary and travel costs
What happens once I’ve applied?
Once the applications are in, we divide the process into two phases: Admin and Artistic.
We read through your application and do extra checks for eligibility and when this is completed, we then send your composition examples to a ‘listening panel’.
A shortlist of ten candidates is drawn up for interview, and then three are selected to participate in the programme as Composer Fellows.
Will I get feedback?
Due to the volume of applications we receive, only shortlisted candidates will get feedback.
Are the interviews in-person or online?
All interviews will be online, using Zoom.
If I get onto the programme, what happens?
You will be commissioned to write a 10-minute piece for an ensemble of Philharmonia players. You will be paid £3000 for your work.
To support you on your journey, you’ll participate in a series of masterclasses and workshops covering advanced composition technique, industry insights, and advice from professional musicians and contemporary composers.
Your work will be performed by Philharmonia musicians at the Royal Festival Hall as part of our Music of Today concert series and recorded for digital release by NMC Recordings.
What if I am on another programme, will I still be able to participate in Composers’ Academy?
We don’t believe that you can access the full benefit of the programme if you are on more than one at the same time. If you are offered another place elsewhere, you will need to make a choice.