Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
June 23, 2026
Marvin Hamlisch Awards Launch 2026-2027 Season for Emerging Talent
TLDR
- Gain industry visibility and potential publication by Concord by winning the MHIMA competition, a unique career advantage.
- MHIMA evaluates submissions anonymously on musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, and narrative connection to select nominees and winners.
- MHIMA honors Marvin Hamlisch's legacy by nurturing young musical talent worldwide, creating opportunities for artistic growth and meaningful careers.
- Nominees attend an exclusive Professional Development Day in NYC with top music executives for mentorship and networking.
Impact - Why it Matters
This competition offers young and emerging composers a rare opportunity to gain professional recognition, mentorship, and industry connections, potentially launching their careers. With prizes from Concord and a Professional Development Day, participants can access resources that typically require years of networking. The strict ban on generative AI ensures originality, preserving artistic integrity in an era of automation. For aspiring musicians, this is a gateway to the industry, honoring Hamlisch's legacy of nurturing new voices.
Summary
The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have announced the launch of their 2026–2027 competition season, inviting youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators worldwide. Inspired by the legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the awards provide a platform for original work, professional recognition, and career development. The competition features updated categories including Film/Media Scoring, Classical Composition, Musical Theatre Composition, and a new Arranging & Orchestration category. Winners will be announced at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut, in late fall 2027.
Co-Founders Betsy Walters and Peter H. Gistelinck emphasize the awards' mission to nurture talent and open doors, connecting emerging creators with mentors and industry professionals. The competition is open to participants of all countries, divided into Youth (under 18) and Emerging (18+ not earning majority income from composing) divisions. All works must be original, with generative AI strictly prohibited. Nominees are invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, reflecting Hamlisch's commitment to supporting young artists.
Judging involves anonymous evaluation by professionals, with up to five nominees per category advancing to a Distinguished Jury. Winners receive an official award and prizes from sponsors like Concord (www.concord.com) and Caroline's Cakes (www.carolinescakes.com). Selected works may be considered for publication by Concord. Registration details are at www.hamlischawards.org. More about Hamlisch is at www.marvinhamlisch.com. This competition honors Hamlisch's legacy by encouraging excellence and innovation in music.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content disributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, Marvin Hamlisch Awards Launch 2026-2027 Season for Emerging Talent
