ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards

The ASCAP Foundation · National

The ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards recognize original concert music by composers in the earliest stages of their careers. Entrants submit one original score written within the past three years, plus a recording if available. There is no entry fee and no requirement to be an ASCAP member. Winners are notified each June and share in a prize pool the Foundation sets annually, including the Leo Kaplan Award for the work judged most outstanding.

Eligibility

GradesGrades 9–12

Min GPA—

ScopeNational

StatesAll states

Fields of studyMusic Composition

DemographicsOpen to composers ages 13 through 29 who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or international students on a valid U.S. student visa; entrants under 18 need parent or guardian consent.

Applying

AwardShare of prize fund

DueNot yet posted (2026 cycle closed February 6)

EssayNot required

Rec. lettersNot required

RenewableNo

Awards/yr—

Total prize funds are shared among winners and set by the Foundation each year; individual award amounts are not fixed in advance.

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