FAQs
- When is the competition deadline?
Entries must be submitted up to midnight on 31 December 2025.
- Is there an age limit?
Entrants must be between 18 and 35 years of age inclusive at the time of the deadline.
- Can I submit more than one entry?
You may submit up to two entries, using either or both of the texts. Each must be submitted separately accompanied by a fresh application form.
- Can I send you my music at other times of the year?
No. Compositions can only be considered in the context of the competition; competition email contacts will be disabled following the finale concert on 23 March 2025.
- What type/genre of music can I submit?
The competition is part of the Classical Sheffield Festival, which showcases classical music, and choral compositions should be in keeping with the aim for an excellent choir of around 120 singers to perform the winning work at the festival finale alongside Faure’s Requiem and three new compositions by established composer Stephen Johnston. We recommend that you submit your best work.
- Will the scores be anonymised before being shared with judges?
Yes. For this reason, submitted compositions must not include the name of the composer, nor any other marking that could reveal their identity.
- Can I submit my entry by post?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept postal submissions. Please send all requirements electronically, to
- How many prize-winners will be selected?
There will be three prize-winners, winning £1,500, £1,000, and £500.
- Who will perform the winning work on 23 March 2025?
Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus has organised the competition in conjunction with Classical Sheffield and will perform the winning composition at the finale of Classical Weekend Festival in March 2025. There are likely to be around 120 singers performing the winning work. Read more about the Chorus below, and at www.sheffieldphil.org
- I am not a UK citizen, can I apply?
Yes, as long as you have lived, studied or worked in Sheffield.
- How much does it cost to apply?
Competition entry is free.
- Can I claim travel expenses to attend the performance?
The competition organisers do not pay expenses, whether for travel to attend performances or for any other purpose.
- When will applicants be notified?
Applicants will be notified by the end of January 2025.
- Can I ask for feedback about my submission?
All entries will receive feedback from the judges as part of the notification procedure. Judges are unable to respond to requests for additional feedback.