Key Dates
About
CIM-S is excited to open a Call for Scores category in collaboration with its keynote ensemble, the Spark Ensemble, to explore the possibilities of a mixed contemporary Chinese instrumental music ensemble. This is open to applicants of all ages, genders, nationalities, religions, level of experience, and backgrounds. Chosen submission(s) will be provided a half workshop slot in the symposium to present their work and premiere the submission in the CIM-S closing concert.
Chosen submission(s) will receive:
Collaborative input and feedback by Spark Ensemble
Feature on CIM-S social media and website.
Complimentary participation in CIM-S as an individual presenter
Premiere performance at the CIM-S closing concert
Instrumentation:
Erhu (1)
Soprano chromatic sheng (1)
Zhongruan (1)
Conductor/Piano* (1)
* optional
Requirements
This opportunity is open to any composer, without restrictions.
Submitted works must be unpublished or self-published.
Content inside submitted files must be anonymous. Identifying marks on scores or recordings such as composer name will disqualify the piece from consideration.
No more than two call for score submissions per applicant.
Duration:
Works of up to 15 minutes will be considered. However, preference will be given to works 3-8 minutes in length. Both single movement and multi-movement works are eligible.
Instrumentation:
Works must be for the instrumentation provided. Conductor/piano may be optional. Extended techniques are accepted with explanations provided in a legend.
Stylistic Considerations:
All styles, genres, and aesthetics are welcome. However, the submission must be related to the symposium’s theme of “Past, Present, and Future of Chinese Instrumental Music in Ontario and Across Canada”
Submission Guidelines
Interested applicants must submit an abstract of no more than 400 words (up to 2500 characters, including spaces) containing the following:
Title of piece
Program note
In addition:
full score with no identifying marks in PDF format
Supporting sound and audio files (if any). If the piece is incomplete, audio that captures ideas of the piece can be shared. Files are acceptable via Google Drive or Dropbox. Please ensure the file is accessible by anyone with the link. MIDI or electronic realizations are acceptable.
Each submission will contain the following elements:
Abstract and program note (PDF)
Score (PDF)
Supporting audio files (Google Drive/Dropbox link/ .mp3)
Chosen submission(s) must provide the following:
Applicant bio and headshot (up to 150 words)
Complete score and parts by June 1, 2026
Selected applicants are encouraged to communicate with the Organizing Committee to arrange time for workshop, collaboration, and input with Spark Ensemble before June 1, 2026.
Applicants whose work(s) are selected are expected to register and attend the entire symposium.
Travel and accommodations will not be provided to the composer for the purposes of rehearsal/workshop/symposium concert attendance.
2 complimentary concert tickets will be provided to the composer for the concert at the composer’s request.
While there are no required entry fees for this call for scores, at the composer’s discretion, a donation (suggested $10 per submission) may be made. Your donation will not affect your application in any way.
Submission
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