The first emphasis in the Young Composers Project is that of educating our students in the field of musical composition. This year, we had more compositions than in the past—67 compositions were submitted with a number of them being submitted “for comment only”. It is wonderful to have new teachers participate every year and this year there were 27 teachers with many of them entering students for the first time. I hope that you will continue to have your students compose.
Our wonderful judges have selected “winners” at each level. Congratulations to both the students and teachers! I am having trouble reading one file so will print the results (Grades 10-12) in the April Clarion; however I will be contacting teachers from 1st grade – 9th grade with the results.
A huge thanks to our amazing panel of judges who have given detailed comments to each composition. I want to especially welcome a new judge this year: Dr. William Dougherty, who joined the University of Washington faculty in January 2025 as a composition professor. Dr. Dougherty judged the 7th and 8th grade compositions. I am so thankful for continuing judges: Rick Asher (Grades K-5), Composer and Retired Professor of Music from Edmonds Community College; Dr. Terry McQuikin (Grades 6 and 9), Composer and Retired Professor of Music from University of Oregon; and Dr. Jiyoun Chung (Grades 10-12), Composer and Professor of Music at Central Washington University.
I always look forward to hearing all the 1st place winners (or alternates) at the Washington State Music Teacher’s Association Conference YCP Recital. This recital is scheduled for Sunday, June 28, 2026 in Ellensburg, Washington at Central Washington University at 3 pm. Everyone is welcome so I hope to see you there!