University of Otago Philip Neill Memorial Prize 2020

Established in 1943 and first awarded in 1944 to Douglas Lilburn, the Prize is awarded annually for excellence in original composition.

The competition is open to all past and present students of the universities of New Zealand and in 2020 is valued at $1500.

2020 topic and requirements

Compose a work for mezzo soprano, violin and piano using any text or texts.

  • You may substitute piano with electronic backing track or live electronics.
  • The work may be divided into more than one song, or may be a continuous piece.
  • The work should be between 10–15 minutes in duration.
  • The work should be written for professional musicians but must not be unreasonably difficult technically.
  • Please include a MIDI recording with the full (physical) musical score.

Please note these requirements should be read in conjunction with the Prize Regulations, available here as a PDF document.

Applications close with the University on 1 July 2020.

All related enquiries can be made to: scholarships@otago.ac.nz.