UK composers under the age of 30 are invited to submit a sacred anthem for SATB choir with organ lasting 2½ to 4 minutes.

First prize is £1,000 and a performance of the composition by the SATB choir Laudemus! in August 2024. The winning piece may also be published by the Royal School of Church Music.

The competition will be judged by Barry Rose, former director of music at Guildford, St Paul's and St Albans cathedrals; Jeremy Jackman, composer, conductor, and musical director of Laudemus!; Sam Hanson, director of music at St Peter, Hammersmith, and organist for Laudemus!; and Tim Ruffer, head of publications at the Royal School of Church Music.

Scores should be submitted anonymously in PDF format via email to laudemus@aol.com with the applicant’s details in the accompanying email. Deadline: 31 January 2024.

Laudemus! is an SATB choir and charity known for its performances in and around Dorset. Composer John Rutter has commended this opportunity for young composers to make their mark in the world of church music.

More information can be found here.