There is a certain vulnerability in writing for the voice. The voice is a unique instrument because it is a part of the human body. In this way, the voice is connected to the performer in a way other instruments are not and can express something deeply personal to the audience. Art songs are a prime tool for exploring this vulnerability and a chance for the composer to be raw with audiences. The No Divide Art Song competition aims specifically to share these stories of vulnerability, showing up, and being seen even in uncertainty, specifically within the LGBTQ+ community. The winners of this competition will be featured as part of No Divide KC’s Come As You Are concert, March 2022.
WHO: No Divide KC, in partnership with local LGBTQ+ singers and accompanists.
WHAT:
-Pieces between 3-8 minutes for one for single voice and piano. Electro-accoustic works are welcome.
-The piece must fit the theme of vulnerability.
Note: Only twenty minutes worth of music will be chosen for this concert. The number of winners will vary depending on the length of the pieces submitted.
EQUIPMENT AND TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE: projector, 12’ portable projector screen, speaker setups for 1-8 speakers, wireless mic, dynamic mics, condenser mics, no provided lighting equipment; please inquire with any specific questions.
Composers must identify within the LGBTQ+ community, including both sexual orientation and gender identity. Submitted works do not necessarily have to deal directly with queer identity, but should match the theme of vulnerability.
Composers may volunteer to perform their work or provide specific musicians.
Selected composers receive a $300 stipend
WHERE: St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 1307 Holmes St., Kansas City, MO 64106
WHEN: March, 2022
Timeline:
-DEADLINE FOR SCORES: December 1st, 2021, 11:59PM CST
-Chosen pieces will be announced by January 15th, 2022
Between January 15th and the concert date, pieces will be rehearsed by the singers assigned. Singers will be given the email contact for the composer so any questions may be cleared up outside of rehearsals.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
NO ENTRY FEE.
No age limit
Composers must identify within the LGBTQ+ umbrella
Terminology such as “professional,” “amateur,” “emerging,” or “classically trained” is not relevant
One (1) piece per submission
-PDF score
-Recording or Midi
-Must fit the theme of vulnerability.
-Works should be written for single voice and piano/electronics
Available voice types:
Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Tenor, Baritone, Bass, Countertenor
-Victoria Jay Searles- Soprano (G3-E6)
-Sarah Kathryn Curtis- Mezzo Soprano (D3-C6)
-Aaron S. Ricucci-Hill- Countertenor Sopranist (B4-C#6)
-Neal Long- Tenor (D3-C5, F5 head extension)
-Calvin Scott- Baritone (F2-F5)
-Bass TBD
-Bio and/or Resume/CV
-Links to website and/or social media
-A statement from the lyricist signifying permission to use their work. (Not required for public domain or self-composed lyrics)
Non-published works preferred, but not excluded.
Winners are not required to attend the performance of their works.
Deadline 1 December 2021
Website nodividekc.org
