As more orchestras are learning, the key to robust and engaged audiences is not just innovative programming but also the support of new music and young composers.  The Minnesota Orchestra has led the way in their efforts with their annual Composer Institute, which had it’s 12 iteration this year.

The institute provides an opportunity for young composers to not only have their works workshopped, rehearsed, and performed, but also allows engagement about the current business of music, including copyright, publishing, promotion, et al. It was founded in 2002 by Minnesota Orchestra in collaboration with Aaron Jay Kernis.  More about the Composer Institute can be found here.

The winners this year included Kati Agócs and Loren Loiacono.

Kati Agocs

Kati Agocs

Loren Loiacono

Loren Loiacono

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read more about this year’s winners and the Composer’s Institute at the Star Tribune.

Past winners have included Stacy Garrop & Lisa Bielawa (2001-2002), Orianna Webb (2002-2003), Fang Man (2004-2005), Anna Clyne, Ashley Nail, & Missy Mazzoli (2006-2007), Xi Wang (2007-2008), Wang Lu & Ming-Hsiu Yen (2008-2009), Kathryn Salfelder & Angel Lam (2009-2010), Polina Nazaykinskaya & Wang Jie (2010-2011), and Hannah Lash & Andreia Pinto-Correia (2011-2012).