Applicants must present their work in the form of scores or sheet music, or compositions in progress, which are based on melodies and thematic development of those melodies. The submitted materials should collectively demonstrate a natural ability or particular interest in composing music based on melodies and thematic development.

By “melody,” we refer to the way melody and thematic material have traditionally been used in music history. This can include melodic phrases, as exemplified by Tchaikovsky, or motivic development forming a melodic structure, as seen in Beethoven or the German tradition. The stylistic framework should align with European art music from the Baroque and Classical periods through the Late Romantic era, prior to the fragmentation and dilution of melody, when it was replaced by “idée fixe.” This means the music must have tonal grounding, though it does not need to rely exclusively on major or minor scales.

Harmonies found in more recent times may also be used. In assessing the submitted works, primary emphasis is placed on the quality of the melodies and their thematic development. The applicant must demonstrate a certain degree of originality, ensuring the music does not appear as a copy of others’ works.

Applicants may request up to $2,000 per application.