The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have officially launched the 2026-2027 competition season, inviting youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators from around the world to participate. Inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the program aims to discover and nurture new musical talent through a global platform that offers professional recognition and career development opportunities.
The competition features updated categories, expanded participation opportunities, and a renewed focus on fostering the next generation of musical storytellers. Winners will be announced at the late fall 2027 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards Presentation, held at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut. Co-Founders Betsy Walters and Peter H. Gistelinck emphasized the Awards' mission: "Marvin Hamlisch believed deeply in nurturing talent and opening doors for the next generation of artists. 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 includes Youth and Emerging Divisions in four categories: Film/Media Scoring, where participants score a short film; Classical Composition, requiring an original concert work based on a creative prompt; Musical Theatre Composition, involving an original piece with music and lyrics inspired by a dramatic scenario; and a newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category, inviting participants to create original arrangements inspired by Marvin Hamlisch's musical legacy.
The competition is open to entrants worldwide, divided into the Youth Division (under 18) and the Emerging Division (18 or older who do not earn the majority of their income as full-time composers). All submissions must be original and created specifically for the Awards, with strict prohibitions against generative artificial intelligence, stock music, or pre-recorded compositions. Nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, featuring mentorship and career guidance from leading industry executives.
Submissions undergo a rigorous anonymous evaluation process by professional judges based on musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, narrative connection, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division advance to a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists, who select final award recipients. Winners receive official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards and commemorative plaques. Selected works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing organizations, subject to independent review.
Registration details, deadlines, and submission guidelines are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to founding sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their long-time support. The competition honors Hamlisch's legacy as a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, and Golden Globe Awards, aiming to cultivate the next generation of composers and musical storytellers.
