2026-2027
WBDI
Commission
Competition
Competition for female* composers
$7000 award
Inspiration: Powerful women and the communities they build. Upbeat and uptempo (may have contrasting sections). Celebratory.
Grade 4 - 4.5. Length - Approximately 8 minutes.
August 1, 2026 by 11:59 PM U.S. EDT - Proposal deadline
October 1, 2026 - Select and notify composer
June 1, 2027 - Commission submitted no later than this date
Fall 2027 - Expected premiere of work
*This is an inclusive definition of female which includes cis- and transgender women, those who are nonbinary, gender non-conforming, and anyone who identifies as female in a way that is significant to them.
2025 Premiere of "Unwavering" by Heather Hastings
"Unwavering Legacy" by Heather Hastings, a work commissioned by WBDI “In Celebration of Gladys Stone Wright, the trailblazing founder of Women Band Directors International,” was premiered on September 30, 2025 by the Thomas S. Wootton High School (Rockville, MD) Wind Ensemble under the direction of Mrs. Susan Eckerle. Heather writes about the work:
From the ensemble arises a small, single motif that is hardly a whisper–at first. Unwavering, it persists, strengthening and growing in instrumentation until it radiates throughout the ensemble. As they join in support, the other voices are lifted into the spotlight, and the piece ends with graceful strength as the single motif echoes toward the future.
Learn more about Unwavering Legacy and Heather’s work on her website: https://www.heatherhastingsmusic.com/unwavering.
The WBDI Commission Competition supports the creation of new concert band works by female/female-identifying composers. Composers submit proposals for consideration, and a committee of WBDI members—representing a range of teaching backgrounds and experiences—selects one composer to receive a commission. The selected composer collaborates closely with the WBDI member who will premiere the work and committee throughout the creative process, providing written feedback, engaging in virtual consultations, and attending the final rehearsal and premiere performance to help bring the work to life.
WBDI is proud to be an active participant in the creation of new music, recognizing its importance in shaping the future of music education and performance. Commissioning original works not only expands the repertoire but also amplifies underrepresented voices and perspectives in the wind band community. Through this initiative, WBDI continues its commitment to artistic innovation, inclusion, and meaningful collaboration.
2021 WBDI
Composition
Contest
