The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have launched the 2026–2027 competition season, offering youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators from around the world a platform to create original work, receive professional recognition, and engage with industry leaders. Inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the Awards aim to discover and encourage new musical talent through updated categories and expanded participation opportunities.
The competition features Youth and Emerging Divisions in four categories: Film/Media Scoring, where participants score a short film; Classical Composition, requiring an original concert work based on a creative prompt; Musical Theatre Composition, which asks for an original piece with music and lyrics; and a newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category, which invites participants to create arrangements inspired by material connected to Hamlisch's legacy.
Open to entrants from all countries, the Youth Division is for those under 18, while the Emerging Division is for individuals 18 or older who do not earn the majority of their income through full-time composing, arranging, or songwriting. All submissions must be original and created specifically for the Awards, with the use of generative artificial intelligence or stock music strictly prohibited.
Beyond the competition, all nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, featuring discussions, mentorship, and networking with leading music industry executives. This reflects Hamlisch's commitment to supporting young artists and creating pathways for future success.
Submissions undergo an anonymous evaluation process by professional judges based on musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, narrative connection, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division advance to a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists, who select the final recipients. Winners receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, and selected works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing organizations, though publication is subject to Concord's independent review.
The awards presentation will take place in late fall 2027 at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut. Registration details, deadlines, and category requirements are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to founding sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their ongoing support.
Marvin Hamlisch, a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, and Golden Globe Awards, created some of the most beloved music in film, theatre, and television. The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards honor that legacy by encouraging excellence, creativity, and innovation while helping cultivate the next generation of composers and musical storytellers.
