Opus 1

Our Opus 1 programme is designed to be a “first step on the ladder” for UK-based aspiring composers of any age.

If you are selected as an Opus 1 composer, you’ll have the chance to write a piece for a group of Britten Sinfonia players, and to take part in a workshop and recording day, receiving advice and feedback from our musicians and this year’s programme directors, composers Dani Howard and Raymond Yiu.

Opus 1 is designed for people who have not previously taken part in similar development schemes (such as the LSO Panufnik composers scheme, Cheltenham Festival Composer Academy and RPS Composers Programme).

“As a result of this project, my confidence has massively grown”
– Emma, Opus 1 Composer (2022)

“It’s unique being able to work with instrumentalists over multiple workshops. Having a really high-level recording at the end is such a valuable thing”
– Joe, Opus 1 Composer (2022)

“It gave us a playground to experiment, and the opportunity to write something that pushed boundaries”
– Elliot, Opus 1 Composer (2022)

Applications for Opus 1 2023 are now open!

Do you have a keen interest in composition? Have you studied music before? Do you want a chance to develop your composition skills in a supportive, friendly environment? If your answers are “yes”, then Opus 1 could be for you. We welcome composers of any age, from any background and with any level of formal composing experience.

We will give eight composers the opportunity to take part in two workshops to develop their piece with the support and advice from our players and composer mentors.

If you are selected, you will be invited to write for one of the following unconducted instrumentations:
Ensemble 1 – Bassoon, Trumpet and Celeste
Ensemble 2 – Percussion (1 player, instrumentation to include vibraphone), Clarinet and Double Bass

After the workshops you will take part in a final rehearsal, followed by a recording session and an informal sharing session. You will have the chance to evaluate the process and your piece with the Programme Directors.

Bursaries

We do not want funding to be a barrier to participation. Composers who are selected for Opus 1 will be offered a bursary of £300 as a contribution towards core travel costs and associated expenses (Exceptional circumstances will be taken into account and additional financial assistance may be offered at the organisation’s discretion).

How to apply

Please complete our online application form and upload the score and a recording or computer realisation of one of your compositions that you feel best represents your compositional style.

Deadline for Applications: Wednesday 5 April, 3pm

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