Applications are currently being accepted for the second annual Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge, which helps to develop the artistry of aspiring high-school-aged theatre songwriters. Applications, which can be completed online, will be accepted through April 30 at midnight ET.
Finalists (either single songwriters or duos) will be selected by a panel of professional songwriters and musicians from each of six nationwide regions. Selected students, who will be announced at the end of June, are paired with a professional theatre songwriter and music director for a mentorship that will result in a Broadway-stage-ready original composition. Students will work with their mentors first via video conferencing and ultimately in-person over a weekend in the student's home town.
Following the mentorship, the finalists' songs will be transcribed for publication in a songbook from program partner Samuel French. Recordings of the songs will also be produced featuring Broadway performers and musicians.
Partners for the program include Samuel French, a Concord Theatricals company; and Disney Theatrical Productions.“Cultivating young talent is crucial for our industry and for our world,” says Wing President & CEO Heather Hitchens. “I am thrilled to once again be partnering with the National Endowment for the Arts, Disney Theatrical Productions, and Samuel French on the Songwriting Challenge, which furthers our commitment to the next generation.”
For more information or to apply, click here.
