The BBC Proms has launched the 2017 Inspire scheme, offering young composers between the age of 12-18 the chance to develop their skills, share ideas and get their work performed through a year-round programme of workshops and projects. Participants in the scheme are also given access to exclusive ticket offers for concerts by BBC orchestras and choirs.
Central to the Inspire scheme is the BBC Proms Inspire Competition, which offers winners the chance to have their work performed by professional musicians at the BBC Proms and broadcast on BBC Radio 3, and a BBC commission. Three winners will be selected from three different categories: those aged 12-14, 15-16, and 17-18. There are no restrictions on instrumentation or length.
The deadline to enter the competition is Thursday 25 May, after which a panel of renowned composers – Mark-Anthony Turnage, Kerry Andrew, Charlotte Bray, Hannah Kendall and Fraser Trainer – and director of the BBC Proms David Pickard, will judge the entries.
‘The BBC Proms Inspire scheme is a unique gateway for young composers wanting to develop their talent and find a showcase for their work,’ said Pickard. ‘I am thrilled by Inspire’s continuing growth and the enthusiasm and talent of those who take part.
Planned events for the BBC Inspire scheme in 2017 include:
International Women’s Day
Following on from Radio 3’s ground-breaking celebration of Women Composers on International Women’s Day in 2016, the station will once again celebrate International Women’s Day in 2017, devoting itself to contemporary women composers on 8 March. Members of the BBC Proms Inspire scheme will be invited to take part in a special Inspire projectwith contemporary composer and Inspire Competition judge Hannah Kendall. Young female composers will work together to create a new piece of music incorporating spoken word. The project will culminate in a live performance to be broadcast on BBC Radio 3’s In Tune on 8 March.
Inspire Session with Sir James MacMillan
The BBC Proms Inspire scheme will continue its strong relationship with the BBC Orchestras and Choirs, who will be offering young composers across the UK the opportunity to work with their professional musicians. On 2 April 2017, composer James MacMillan will be running a masterclass with musicians from the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, in connection with his concert at Glasgow City Halls on 30 March. The workshop will be open to anyone aged 12-18.
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