# ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards

National concert-music composition awards from The ASCAP Foundation for US composers ages 13 to 29: winners receive cash awards in a program honoring Morton Gould. Applications run each January to early February.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | The ASCAP Foundation |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 7–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://www.ascapfoundation.org/programs/awards/young-composer-awards |

## About this program

# ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards

The Morton Gould Young Composer Awards are The ASCAP Foundation's flagship recognition for composers of original concert music at the earliest stages of their careers. The awards honor Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and former ASCAP president Morton Gould's lifelong commitment to encouraging young creators, and teenage composers compete alongside conservatory students for a national credential judged by professionals.

## What You'll Do

- Submit one original concert work - score and/or recording - through the online application during the winter window
- Compete for cash awards selected by a panel of distinguished composers
- Gain national recognition announced by ASCAP each spring, with winners' names published to the industry
- Reapply in future years as your writing develops (up to three career Morton Gould awards)

## Who Should Apply

Composers who are at least 13 years old and under 30 as of the deadline, and a US citizen, permanent resident, or enrolled student with a current US student visa. Applicants under 18 submit a parental consent form. One submission per entrant is allowed. The 2026 application period ran January 6 to February 6, 2026; the next cycle typically reopens in January.

## Outcomes

Winning a Morton Gould award places a student composer on a list that has included many of America's leading concert-music voices, with cash support and an ASCAP Foundation credential that carries real weight in conservatory and college composition applications.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards?

ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards is open to students in grades 7–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards online or in person?

ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to ASCAP Foundation Morton Gould Young Composer Awards?

Apply directly through The ASCAP Foundation's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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