WBDI Members - Join the Consortium for the 2027 WBDI Commission Competition 

 

WBDI is hosting a Commission Competition for female* composers. 

 

*This is an inclusive definition of female which includes cis- and trans-gendered women, those who are nonbinary, gender non-conforming, and anyone who identifies as female in a way that is significant to them.

 

Women Band Directors International (WBDI) is accepting proposals for a commission by female* composers for a grade 4-4.5 work for concert band that is approximately 8 minutes in length. The composition should be of the quality that would be included in a state festival or contest list. The winner of the competition will be commissioned to write a piece for a WBDI member to perform with her band in the Fall of 2027. The winning composer will receive a $7,000 USD award. (This includes travel for the dress rehearsal and premier performance). The award will be funded through WBDI with WBDI members as additional consortium members. 

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The winning composer will be notified of the commission by October 1, 2026, and will have until June 1, 2027, to deliver the score and parts of the commissioned work to the conductor of the premiere. The selected composer is expected to collaborate with the premiering conductor and committee chairs throughout the process of composition. Additionally, the selected composer is expected to consult with the conductor of the ensemble during the rehearsal process via written comments and video conference sessions and to be physically present at the dress rehearsal and performance. The expected premier performance will be in the fall of 2027.

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Inspiration: Powerful women and the communities they build. Upbeat and uptempo (may have contrasting sections). Celebratory.

*If you are interested in premiering the commission with your band, use this form to submit YouTube links to recordings and/or upload recordings directly. Please also include a statement as to why you want to premiere the piece and what this premiere will bring to your band program. The premiere includes a residency with the composer (the award covers up to $1000 for the residency). Additionally, as the premiering director, you will have some opportunity to provide input (what works, what to adjust, etc.) throughout the rehearsal process toward the premiere. 

 

To finalize participation, submit a $300 payment to WBDI Executive Secretary, Ruth Petersen. (See further instructions below.)

 

Bands seeking to premiere the piece must join the consortium by September 1, 2026.

Consortium is open through June 30, 2027. 

 

*The premiering band will be chosen through blind peer review of submitted recordings and statement. Premiering director will be notified by October 1, 2026.