Minneapolis (February 15, 2007) – VocalEssence and the American Composers Forum announce a call for scores for Essentially Choral, the sixth annual choral reading program that gives emerging composers an opportunity to develop new material for the choral repertoire. Composers must submit scores by March 9, 2007 for consideration.

Up to five works-in-progress will be selected for the program. Both a cappella works and those with instrumental accompaniment are eligible. A $3,500 commission may be awarded to one of the selected composers for a world premiere performance during the 2007-2008 VocalEssence concert season.

During the weekend of May 17 – 19, 2007, the chosen composers will hear their compositions read (rehearsed) by the 32-voice VocalEssence Ensemble Singers with up to five professional instrumentalists. They will then meet with an internationally recognized choral composer and conductor Philip Brunelle to workshop their scores. Travel and lodging are provided for all selected composers.

“Essentially Choral is an exciting, important program for VocalEssence,” says Managing Director Mary Ann Pulk. “VocalEssence and American Composers Forum have always been on the cutting edge of the musical experience. Essentially Choral gives composers the opportunity to hear their new music and receive thoughtful feedback in a supportive environment.”

“I have finally heard a piece that tried many new techniques that I was not sure would work in performance — they did. This gives me confidence as a composer,” said one of the composers who participated in a previous Essentially Choral reading session.

Essentially Choral affirms the ongoing commitment of VocalEssence and the American Composers Forum to the work of today’s composers and the performance of their music. The program is generously supported by a grant from the Jerome Foundation.

For more information about Essentially Choral, visit www.vocalessence.org, or call VocalEssence Director of Community Engagement Kimberly Meisten (612-547-1456, kmeisten@vocalessence.org). For additional press information, contact Katryn Conlin, 612-547-1459 or kconlin@vocalessence.org.