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 globe to participate. Inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the program aims to discover, encourage, and celebrate new musical talent through a distinctive international platform.
The competition features updated categories for this season, including Film/Media Scoring, Classical Composition, Musical Theatre Composition, and an expanded Arranging & Orchestration category. The Arranging & Orchestration category will invite participants to create original works inspired by material connected to Hamlisch's musical legacy, showcasing creativity and craftsmanship. All submissions must be original and created specifically for the Awards, with a strict prohibition on the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, or pre-recorded compositions.
Participants can enter in two divisions: the Youth Division for entrants under 18 years old, and the Emerging Division for those 18 or older who do not yet earn the majority of their income through full-time composing. This structure ensures accessibility for students, educators, and other music professionals transitioning into composition careers.
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. Beyond the competition, all nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, offering mentorship and career guidance from leading music industry executives.
The judging process involves anonymous evaluation by professional judges based on criteria such as musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category and division will be selected, then reviewed by a Distinguished Jury of internationally recognized artists and industry leaders. Special citations and honors may also be awarded at the jury's discretion.
Winners will receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, and nominees will receive commemorative plaques. Prize packages may be provided by sponsors, and selected works may be considered for publication by Concord, a leading music publishing and theatrical licensing organization. Publication is subject to Concord's independent review but represents a significant opportunity for emerging creators to gain industry visibility.
The Awards honor Hamlisch's remarkable legacy, which includes a Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, Tony Awards, and Golden Globe Awards. His commitment to supporting young artists continues through this program, which encourages excellence and innovation in music composition.
Registration details, deadlines, category requirements, and submission guidelines are available on the official website at www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expresses gratitude to founding and long-time sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their continued support.
