The BBC Proms has kicked off its 2017 Inspire scheme to help support young composers.
The BBC Proms Inspire scheme has to date provided a platform for over 900 young composers aged 12-18 year olds from across the UK to develop their skills, share their ideas and get their music heard. The scheme continues this year, offering young opportunities and year-round events to encourage their development.
At the centre of the scheme is the BBC Proms Inspire Competition, which offers winners the chance to have their composition performed by professional musicians at the BBC Proms and broadcast on BBC Radio 3, as well as a BBC commission.
The 2017 Inspire Competition is now open for entries and runs until Thursday, May 25. Every night this week, BBC Radio 3’s drive time programme In Tune will mark the launch of Inspire with recordings of pieces from previous winners, including Jack Robinson, James Chan and Shoshanah Sievers, as well as interviews from judge Kerry Andrew and 2016 winner Sam Rudd-Jones.
This year’s judging panel is made up of several acclaimed composers, including Mark-Anthony Turnage, Kerry Andrew, Charlotte Bray, Hannah Kendall and Fraser Trainer as well as director of the BBC Proms, David Pickard.
Previous winners can join the team of Inspire Ambassadors, who serve as a sounding board and champion the work of the Inspire scheme across the UK. The 2017 Inspire Ambassadors are as follows: Sarah Gait, Electra Perivolaris, Grace Mason, Sofia Swenson-Wright, Tammas Slater, Thomas Brown, Alex Jones, Ellis Howarth, Max Bilbe, William Kidner and Sarah Jenkins.
“The BBC Proms Inspire scheme is a unique gateway for young composers wanting to develop their talent and find a showcase for their work,” said Packard. “I am thrilled by Inspire’s continuing growth and the enthusiasm and talent of those who take part.”
"Being a part of the BBC Proms Inspire scheme has opened up incredible opportunities to work alongside professionals and other young composers, as well as increasing my confidence and love for music - I would truly encourage anyone with a passion for composing to apply," added Jenkins.
For full details on how to enter, please visit bbc.co.uk/promsinspire.
