Fear No Music

What would you write if you had your own chamber music group?

Each year aspiring young composers from Oregon and Washington have precisely that opportunity. Under the direction of pianist and conductor Jeff Payne, the Young Composers Project is dedicated to developing the next generation of composers.

During the school year, through a series of workshops and a performance, the YCP gives students the opportunity to compose their own music and work with a professional ensemble rehearsing and performing that piece.

Participating students have won a lengthy list of awards including state, regional and national honors. KBPS Classical Radio has annually broadcast interviews with some of the composers along with their pieces and segments of the workshop have been featured on Oregon Public Broadcasting’s “ArtBeat.” Students have participated in master classes with Pulitzer Prize winning composer William Bolcom, and Indiana University faculty member David Dzubay.

Above, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer William Bolcom works with Jessica Hunt on her piece. (Images courtesy Oregon Public Broadcasting.)

> Go to Requirements & Application Forms

For questions, email YCP director Jeff Payne.

2008 Young Composers Concert DVD Now Available!

This is a terrific memento of incredible masterpieces by our own talented young composers! It also makes a great gift for grandparents, relatives, and friends who could not attend the concert.

DVD producer Jon Hartman of Willamette Valley Media Group is a professional photographer based in Tualatin. Please send checks for $25 with your contact information directly to Jon at:

Please include “2008 Young Composers Concert” somewhere in your correspondence to ensure you get the correct DVD.