In 2007, the CGCC Community Arts Program (CAP) unveiled its Young Musicians’ International Composition Competition with an international call for string chamber orchestra compositions referencing Afro-Hispanic culture and traditions. The result was entries that span four countries: Germany, Italy, Puerto Rico, and the United States.

In May, the competition judges proudly announced a first-prize award of $1,000 and a second-prize award of $500. Following the judges’ careful review of all entries, two composers residing in Germany took home the prizes. First prize was awarded to Australian composer Gordon Hamilton for his composition entitled “Reggaeton.” Second prize was awarded to Cuban composer Marialy Pacheco (pictured) for her composition titled “Guajira para Tulio.”

The purpose of the Young Musicians’ International Composition Competition is four-fold: (a) to encourage unique directions for emerging young and creative talent; (b) to increase the amount of music literature that speaks to the struggles, celebrations, and vibrancy of diverse cultures, (c) to increase the amount of high-quality music literature available to youth orchestras; and (d) to spark lasting platforms-embracing history, tolerance, and cultural diversity-as the greatest added value and outreach of musical expression. The 2007 winning compositions will be premiered in the 2007-2008 season by the CGCC Community Arts Program.

A huge round of applause goes out to our winners. Special thanks and appreciation is given to our esteemed judges: Michael Abels (University of Southern California, composition / California Institute for the Arts, West-African Music); William H. Banchs, Ph.D. (President, National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, Harvard University, Ph.D. in composition and theory) and Lansing D. McLoskey, Ph.D. (Assistant Professor of Music Theory and Composition, University of Miami / Harvard University, composition). We look forward to another successful International Composition Competition in 2008!