The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have officially launched the 2026–2027 competition season, inviting youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators from around the globe to participate. Inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the Awards aim to discover and nurture new musical talent through an international platform that provides professional recognition, industry engagement, and career opportunities. The winners will be announced at the late fall 2027 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards Presentation, held at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut.
"Marvin Hamlisch believed deeply in nurturing talent and opening doors for the next generation of artists," said Betsy Walters and Peter H. Gistelinck, Co-Founders of MHIMA. "These Awards celebrate that spirit by connecting emerging creators with mentors, industry professionals, and opportunities that can help launch and sustain meaningful careers in music."
The 2026–2027 competition features updated categories, including Film/Media Scoring, Classical Composition, Musical Theatre Composition, and a newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category. Participants in the Arranging & Orchestration category will create original works inspired by material connected to Marvin Hamlisch's musical legacy. All submitted works must be original, with strict prohibitions against the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, or pre-recorded compositions.
The competition is open to entrants from all countries and is divided into Youth (under 18) and Emerging (18 and older who do not earn the majority of their income through full-time composing) divisions. All nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, offering mentorship, career guidance, and networking with music industry executives. This program reflects Hamlisch's commitment to supporting young artists.
Submissions undergo anonymous evaluation by professional judges based on criteria including musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, dramatic connection to the prompt, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division advance to a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists who select final award recipients. Winners receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, and nominees receive commemorative plaques. Prize packages may be awarded through sponsors and industry partners, and selected winning works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing organizations, subject to independent review.
Registration details, deadlines, category requirements, and submission guidelines are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to long-time sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their continued support.
