Sunday, May 24, 2009

Composition Competition 2009 Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions regarding the composition competition.

Thank you for everyone who has submitted questions! Below is a list of the most frequent questions asked. This list will be updated occasionally. All questions are valid, and may help someone else. Good luck to everyone! And please send all questions only to this address:
Competition@AuroraBorealisDuo.com

This is an anonymous competition.

Can the composition be for more then 1 percussionist and/or more then 1 singer?
No. At this time the competition is limited to only 1 percussionist and 1 soprano. In the future we may include additional musicians, but not at this time.

Can the work include vibraphone?
No. The list of instruments is specifically designed for several reasons including (but not limited to); what we can travel with and what we own.

Are other languages allowed besides what are listed in the official rules?
Yes. Please, contact us before writing for any language other then the ones mentioned in the official rules. Several additional items need to be included with the submission (listed below). If we are not contacted beforehand that submission can/will be disqualified. Do not assume a language will be allowed if the items below are included; some languages may not be allowed.
1)a transliteration in IPA,
2)a word for word translation,
3)a cd (or video) demonstrating the pronunciation. Unfortunately, a recording of a performance would not fill this requirement; due to balances, performance mishaps, etc.

Does the submission have to be written specifically for this competition?
No.

Is it alright if the composition has been performed already?
Yes.

Are arrangements allowed?
Arrangements of your own works are allowed. Arrangements of others works are not allowed. You must have the rights to be able to arrange your work, as well.

What is a Mokusho?
It is a Japanese instrument similar to a woodblock. It is traditionally played with the mallet pictures to the right. The sound is similar to a wood block, but the mokusho is a much drier and articulate sound.



















What are Elephant Bells?
It is a string of bells. Each bell is lower in pitch then a traditional string of bells, and each individual bell is more resonant then a single bell on a string of bells.















Other instruments and sound samples will soon be available.