The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards (MHIMA) have officially launched the 2026–2027 competition season, inviting youth and emerging composers, songwriters, arrangers, and orchestrators worldwide to participate in a program designed to discover and nurture new musical talent. The competition, inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, offers participants an international platform to create original work, receive professional recognition, and engage with industry leaders.
The 2026–2027 competition introduces updated categories and expanded participation opportunities. Categories include Film/Media Scoring, Classical Composition, Musical Theatre Composition, and a newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category. In the latter, participants will create original arrangements and orchestrations inspired by material connected to Marvin Hamlisch's musical legacy. The competition is divided into two divisions: Youth (under 18) and Emerging (18 or older who do not earn the majority of their income from full-time composing).
Notably, the Awards strictly prohibit the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, pre-recorded compositions, or other non-original source material. All submitted works must be original and created specifically for the competition, preserving artistic integrity and originality.
Winners will be announced at the late fall 2027 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards Presentation at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut. All nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, featuring discussions, mentorship, and networking with music industry executives.
Submissions undergo a rigorous anonymous evaluation process based on criteria including musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, narrative connection, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division are selected, then reviewed by a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists. Winners receive an official MHIMA award, and nominees receive commemorative plaques. Selected winning works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing and theatrical licensing organizations, subject to independent review.
"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 competition is open to entrants from all countries. Registration details, deadlines, and submission guidelines are available on the official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards website. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to founding sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their continued support.
The Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards honor the legacy of Hamlisch, a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, and Golden Globe Awards. The program aims to encourage excellence and innovation while cultivating the next generation of composers and musical storytellers.
