The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have officially announced the launch of the 2026–2027 competition season, opening a global call for youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators. The program, inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, aims to discover and nurture new musical talent by providing an international platform for original work, professional recognition, and career development opportunities.
The competition introduces updated categories and expanded participation opportunities, reinforcing its commitment to fostering the next generation of musical storytellers. Winners will be announced at the late fall 2027 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards Presentation, to be held at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut.
“Marvin Hamlisch believed deeply in nurturing talent and opening doors for the next generation of artists,” said Betsy Walters and Peter H. Gistelinck, Co-Founders of MHIMA. “These Awards celebrate that spirit by connecting emerging creators with mentors, industry professionals, and opportunities that can help launch and sustain meaningful careers in music.”
The 2026–2027 competition features four main categories. In Film/Media Scoring, participants receive a short film and create an original score designed to enhance the dramatic and emotional impact of the visual narrative. The Classical Composition category asks participants to respond to a creative prompt and compose an original concert work. For Musical Theatre Composition, entrants create an original musical theatre piece with music and lyrics inspired by a provided dramatic scenario. A newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category invites participants to create original arrangements and orchestrations inspired by material connected to Marvin Hamlisch’s musical legacy.
The competition is open to entrants from all countries and territories, divided into two divisions: the Youth Division for those under 18 years of age at the registration deadline, and the Emerging Division for those 18 or older who do not yet earn the majority of their income through professional, full-time composing, arranging, or songwriting. All submitted works must be original and created specifically for the Awards, with strict prohibition on the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, pre-recorded compositions, or other non-original source material.
Beyond the competition, all nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, where they will meet leading music industry executives for discussions, mentorship, and career guidance. This reflects Hamlisch’s lifelong commitment to supporting young artists.
Submissions will undergo a rigorous anonymous evaluation by professional judges based on musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, dramatic or narrative connection, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division will advance to a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists and industry leaders, who will select final award recipients. Special citations and honors may also be presented.
Winners will receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, and nominees will receive commemorative plaques. Prize packages may be awarded through sponsors and industry partners. Selected winning works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world’s leading music publishing organizations, though publication is subject to Concord’s independent review.
Registration details, deadlines, category requirements, prompts, and submission guidelines are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The Awards are grateful to sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their continued support.
