Spring 2022 Cycle

The Basics

All young composers who participate in the project wrote a short composition for two or three instruments between mid-January and March. In addition, participants were paired with one of our Composer-Mentors, who gave them constructive and helpful feedback as they wrote their short pieces. Then, in May, the completed pieces were recorded at Interlochen Center for the Arts by student musicians from Interlochen Arts Academy.

Eligibility

We looked for participants who:

• Were 16 years old or younger at the time of application

• Had some experience writing music in the past and can notate their compositions on staff paper/sheet music

• Have had very few (if any) opportunities for their music to be performed

We included 15 participants in this cycle, and they hailed from 10 U.S. states and even internationally!

Writing the Music

Once applicants were accepted into The NowBeat Project - Spring 2022 Cycle, participants wrote a piece for a small ensemble. Participants spent between mid-January and March working to write a short piece for the ensemble they select.

Connecting with Composer-Mentors

Once applicants were accepted into The NowBeat Project - Spring 2022 Cycle, they were paired with one of our talented and motivated Composer-Mentors, all of whom were seniors studying composition at Interlochen Arts Academy or recent graduates from the Academy. Each participant met with their respective Composer-Mentor several times during months of January through March to receive informal, constructive feedback about their composition.

Recording the Music

By April 1, participants turned in their completed pieces (including scores & parts). The individual parts were then distributed to the appropriate performers, all of whom are wonderful young musicians who were students at Interlochen Arts Academy. Then, in mid-May, each piece was read and recorded at Interlochen Center for the Arts. After we made sure each recording is up to our standards, we sent each composer their respective recording, which they could then use and publicize as they wish!

On August 27, 2022, we presented our second-annual Virtual Showcase Concert, which featured five of the completed pieces from the Spring 2022 Cycle. To check out the concert, click here!