Competition encourages collaboration

University News Last updated 28 November

Liz Dilnot Johnson

Composer and alumna Liz Dilnot Johnson has set up a new competition called LDJ60_Compose_Perform_Film PRIZE to encourage collaborations between RBC performers and composers.

To enter the competition, groups of between one and three performers must select a chamber work by Liz, which could be music for voice(s), strings, piano, woodwind, brass or open improvisatory works. Student composers must compose a new work for the performers, and the performer(s) must make a 10-15-minute video of the performances of Liz’s music and the new work.

There will be three prizes awarded. The LDJ60 Performance Prize will go to the most accomplished and effective performers overall – of Liz's music and the new work– and two LDJ60 Composition Prizes are awarded for the most accomplished and effective new student works.

The deadline for video entries is Monday 13 January 2025. The prize-giving, which will include the screening of the videos, will take place on Monday 27 January 2025 at RBC’s The Lab.

Liz hopes to run the competition every two years at RBC with alternate years at other conservatoires around the UK.

Liz said: “I am excited about this new opportunity, and grateful for the support of RBC and my publisher Composers Edition to help make this happen. As an RBC alumna and Lecturer, I am excited to see and hear all the new music that emerges, as well as celebrating my range of songs and chamber works through new student performances.”

Head of Composition Professor Joe Cutler said: “This is a fantastic new initiative celebrating Liz's music while also encouraging student composer/performer collaboration. The strong focus on the video medium is so important today, as artists look to develop a strong online presence from the earliest stages of their development.

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