The prestigious World Soundtrack Awards has opened submissions for its 2026 Film Music Composition Contest, giving emerging composers a unique global platform to showcase their talents. The contest challenges young composers to create a brand-new original score for the opening credits of Ratched — the popular psychological thriller series created by Ryan Murphy and Evan Romansky.
This year’s theme honors the ten-year anniversary of the Television Composer of the Year Award, inviting composers under the age of 36 to reimagine the iconic opening sequence. The contest is now officially open March 2, 2026, and will close May 15, 2026.
A Chance to Be Heard — And Performed Live
Young composers often struggle to get their orchestral music heard by audiences and industry professionals alike. That’s why the World Soundtrack Academy has designed this contest not only to provide exposure but to give finalists the opportunity to experience live orchestral performance of their work.
A professional jury, led by WSA Music Director Dirk Brossé, will select three finalists whose original scores will be featured during the WSA Film Music Days, taking place 8–10 October 2026 at the 53rd edition of the Film Fest Gent in Ghent, Belgium.
During the World Soundtrack Awards Ceremony & Concert at De Bijloke on 10 October, the finalists’ scores will be performed by the Brussels Philharmonic — a rare and prestigious opportunity for rising composers to hear their music played live in front of industry professionals.
What the Winner Receives
The overall winner will earn the World Soundtrack Award for Best Original Composition by a Young Composer, powered by Vienna Synchron Stage. Alongside the honor, the winner receives:
A €2,500 cash prize A lifelong license to the Synchron Series Package (valued at €7,899) thanks to Vienna Synchron Stage — a major asset for orchestral composers.
Previous winners of the contest have included composers like Florian van der Reijden (The Witches), Alec Sievern (Abzû), and Bongseop Kim (The Elephant Man excerpt).
Why It Matters
This contest is more than just a competition. For young composers at the start of their careers, it represents a rare chance to have their work performed by a world-class orchestra, gain visibility within an international community, and build momentum in the highly competitive world of film and screen music.
How to Enter
Submissions are open until 15 May 2026. Interested composers under 36 years old can find full contest guidelines and entry details on the official World Soundtrack Awards website.
💬 Are you a composer thinking about entering this year? Or a music fan excited to hear the results? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! 🎶
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