ABU DHABI – The Abu Dhabi Festival and the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) have announced the launch of the Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition, a global platform dedicated to discovering and supporting creative musical talent. Submissions for the inaugural edition are now officially open until 15 September 2025.
This landmark initiative invites composers from around the world to submit their original works in a competition that promotes excellence, cultural diversity, and innovation in music. Open to emerging and established composers up to the age of 50, this competition aims to showcase the future of music from Abu Dhabi to the world.
A Global Call to Composers
The Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition is positioned as a pivotal step in reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to the arts and international cultural cooperation. By offering a high-profile opportunity for composers to have their work performed and professionally recorded, the competition bridges emerging voices with global audiences.
The program is organized under the auspices of ADMAF, which has long been recognized for championing artistic growth through the Abu Dhabi Festival and other platforms supporting music, visual arts, and cultural education.
Prizes and Recognition
The competition offers three main prizes:
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First Prize: AED 130,000, a professional recording, and a world premiere performance during the 23rd Abu Dhabi Festival in April 2026.
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Second Prize: AED 50,000, a performance opportunity, global recognition, and personalized mentorship.
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Third Prize: AED 25,000 and access to professional mentorship.
All winning works will be included in the Abu Dhabi Festival Composers’ Platform and professionally recorded for global circulation.
Two Competition Categories
Submissions are accepted in two primary categories:
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Orchestral Works – up to 10 minutes in duration.
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Solo Piano Compositions – up to 5 minutes in duration.
For this inaugural edition, the featured instrument is the piano.
Who Can Apply
Eligible composers must be:
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Aged 50 or younger (born on or after 15 September 1975).
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From any nationality or country.
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Able to submit an original, unpublished, and unperformed piece in one of the two categories.
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Willing to remain anonymous during the jury review process.
Submissions must include a PDF score, an audio file (MIDI or live recording), a short concept note (maximum 300 words), and a composer biography.
Judging Criteria
Entries will be evaluated by a panel of distinguished international composers and conductors. Works will be assessed based on the following criteria:
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Originality
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Creativity
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Elegance
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Intellectual depth
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Technical proficiency
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Emotional impact
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Integration of traditional instruments or musical heritage
All evaluations will be blind, ensuring an unbiased process that focuses purely on musical excellence.
A Platform for Global Talent
Beyond monetary prizes and performances, the competition offers long-term opportunities for global visibility and career advancement. Winning compositions will become part of a professionally produced recording series and benefit from ADMAF’s strong international network.
The Abu Dhabi Festival Composers’ Platform, which began over 15 years ago, has already supported more than 36 original works and 80 co-commissions, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation as a dynamic center for musical innovation.
Competition Timeline
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Submissions Open: 15 June 2025
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Submission Deadline: 15 September 2025
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Finalists Announced: 15 December 2025
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World Premiere Performance: April 2026 at the 23rd Abu Dhabi Festival
Long-Term Impact
The Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition is more than just a contest. It is a global stage for the next generation of composers to present their ideas, explore new musical forms, and develop lasting careers.
The initiative also supports Abu Dhabi’s designation as a UNESCO City of Music and its broader cultural strategy to elevate the arts and connect communities through music.
By attracting international talent and integrating it into a local cultural context, the competition advances cross-cultural understanding and reinforces the UAE’s position as a leader in global creative industries.
Abu Dhabi Festival and ADMAF
Founded in 2004, the Abu Dhabi Festival is one of the Middle East’s leading cultural events, known for commissioning new works and hosting some of the most respected names in the global performing arts scene.
ADMAF, the festival’s parent organization, has consistently nurtured talent through its initiatives in education, the visual arts, theatre, literature, and music. The composition competition is a natural extension of its mission to support creative ambition and provide sustainable artistic careers.
What Composers Gain
This competition is designed to give composers more than financial support. It offers:
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Professional exposure
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High-quality recording of winning works
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Global media recognition
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Career-enhancing mentorship
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A premiere performance at one of the world’s most prominent festivals
These benefits combine to create a springboard for future opportunities, commissions, and international collaborations.
Application Instructions
To apply, composers must:
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Prepare an anonymous PDF score of their original composition.
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Include an audio file (either a MIDI rendition or live performance recording).
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Write a short concept note explaining the work’s background, style, or themes.
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Submit a composer bio (maximum 300 words).
Submissions must be completed through the official submission portal by the deadline of 15 September 2025.
Final Words
As the Abu Dhabi Festival continues to push the boundaries of creative excellence, the launch of the Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition represents a defining moment for composers around the world.
By fostering innovation, championing global perspectives, and rewarding artistic talent, the competition offers a platform where musical ideas can flourish. For those ready to contribute to the evolving soundscape of our time, this is an unmissable opportunity.
With generous prizes, professional recognition, and a world-class stage awaiting, the message is clear: the future of music begins here, in Abu Dhabi.
FAQs
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Composers from any country under the age of 50 are eligible.
Q: What are the categories for submission?
A: Orchestral compositions (up to 10 minutes) and solo piano works (up to 5 minutes).
Q: What is the deadline?
A: All submissions must be completed by 15 September 2025.
Q: What can winners expect?
A: Cash prizes up to AED 130,000, professional recording, mentorship, and a performance at the Abu Dhabi Festival.
Q: Will the submissions be judged anonymously?
A: Yes. All entries will be evaluated without identifying the composer’s name to ensure fairness.
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