Submissions

SUBMISSION TERMS

For its 2026 open call for scores, Atlanta Contemporary Ensemble is looking for 3 pieces between 5-7 minutes, scored for modern dancers and small mixed chamber ensemble. The music will reflect and draw inspiration from three paintings by Krista M. Jones, which will feature at the start of the concert with projections and a brief lecture. Art and artist statement are at the bottom of this page.

The selected scores which will be performed in Atlanta, GA in January 2027 as part of the SoundNOW music festival, performed by the Atlanta Contemporary Ensemble, professionally choreographed, recorded, and video-taped.

The deadline to apply is 5pm on September 1st 2026. Your application will remain anonymous throughout the adjudication procedure.  There is no age limit or fee to apply.  Older pieces are welcome, we do not require original compositions. Email all applications to admin@atlce.org. 

You will need to submit:

1) Resume

2) Score in pdf format WITH YOUR NAME REMOVED OR BLOCKED OUT. One submission per composer. Older or previously performed pieces are welcome. Please no handwritten scores.

3) A recording of the piece (instrumental recording or piano reduction is preferred, midi is acceptable)

Because this is for mixed ensemble, music must be for at least three players and some combination of more than one of the following groups (for example, you could score for clarinet-violin-trap set or viola-cello-flute, but not all strings or all winds):

Strings: Violin, viola, 'cello, bass

Winds: Flute, clarinet, saxophone

Percussion: trap set

Please keep in mind that ACE will have limited rehearsal time with the dancers, so while we want to see your best work, don't send in anything that would require 100 hours of rehearsal time. We look forward to hearing from you!

For any questions please contact admin@atlce.org

 Artist statement

These figurative abstract works explore perspective, movement, and the complex relationship between freedom and limitation. Combining organic forms with symbolic mechanical elements, the paintings reflect the ways we navigate autonomy, dependence, and transformation throughout life. Shifting between abstraction and figuration, the imagery serves as a metaphor for personal agency, the desire for movement, and the invisible structures that shape our experiences. Rather than illustrating fixed narratives, these works invite open interpretation, encouraging viewers to reflect on their own relationship to transition, possibility, and what it means to move through the world.

Along for the Ride by Krista M. Jones

Morphe by Krista M. Jones

Farewell Transmission by Krista M. Jones