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 world to participate. The program, inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, aims to discover and encourage new musical talent through a global platform that offers professional recognition and career development opportunities.
The 2026–2027 competition introduces updated categories and expanded participation opportunities, including a newly expanded Arranging & Orchestration category that challenges participants to create original works inspired by material connected to Hamlisch's musical legacy. Other categories include Film / Media Scoring, Classical Composition, and Musical Theatre Composition. The competition is divided into two divisions: Youth Division for entrants under 18, and Emerging Division for those 18 or older who do not earn the majority of their income through full-time composing, arranging, or songwriting.
All submitted works must be original and created specifically for the awards, with strict prohibitions on the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, or pre-recorded compositions. Submissions undergo an anonymous evaluation process judged 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 award recipients.
Winners receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, while nominees receive commemorative plaques. Selected winning works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing organizations, though this is not guaranteed. All nominees are invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, featuring mentorship and career guidance from industry executives.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for late fall 2027 at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut. Registration details, deadlines, and submission guidelines are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their continued support.
Marvin Hamlisch, a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards, left an indelible mark on music. The awards honor his legacy by fostering the next generation of composers and musical storytellers, providing a unique bridge between emerging artists and the professional music industry.
