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. Inspired by the legacy of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, the Awards provide a distinctive platform for discovering and nurturing new musical talent, connecting participants with industry leaders and career-building opportunities.
The 2026–2027 competition introduces updated categories and expanded participation opportunities across multiple disciplines. Winners will be announced at the late fall 2027 Marvin Hamlisch International Music Awards Presentation, held at the historic Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford, Connecticut.
Betsy Walters and Peter H. Gistelinck, Co-Founders of MHIMA, emphasized the Awards' mission: "Marvin Hamlisch believed deeply in nurturing talent and opening doors for the next generation of artists. These Awards celebrate that spirit by connecting emerging creators with mentors, industry professionals, and opportunities that can help launch and sustain meaningful careers in music."
The competition features Youth and Emerging Divisions in four categories: Film/Media Scoring, Classical Composition, Musical Theatre Composition, and Arranging & Orchestration. The Arranging & Orchestration category is newly expanded, inviting participants to create original arrangements inspired by material connected to Hamlisch's musical legacy. All submissions must be original and created specifically for the Awards; the use of generative artificial intelligence, stock music, or pre-recorded compositions is strictly prohibited.
The Awards are open to entrants from all countries. The Youth Division is for entrants under 18, while the Emerging Division is for those 18 or older who do not earn the majority of their income through professional composing, arranging, or songwriting. Undergraduate and graduate students, music educators, and performers remain eligible.
Beyond the competition, all nominees will be invited to an exclusive Professional Development and Networking Day in New York City, featuring discussions, mentorship, and career guidance with leading music industry executives. This reflects Hamlisch's lifelong commitment to supporting young artists.
Submissions undergo anonymous evaluation by professional judges based on musical literacy, creativity, technological proficiency, dramatic connection to the prompt, and overall artistic excellence. Up to five nominees per category advance to a Distinguished Jury, which selects final award recipients. Winners receive an official Marvin Hamlisch International Music Award, and nominees receive commemorative plaques. Selected winning works may be considered for publication by Concord, one of the world's leading music publishing organizations.
Marvin Hamlisch, a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize, Academy Awards, Grammys, Emmys, Tony Awards, and Golden Globes, created beloved music across film, theatre, television, and popular culture. The Awards honor his legacy by cultivating the next generation of composers and musical storytellers.
Registration details, deadlines, and submission guidelines are available at the official website: www.hamlischawards.org. The MHIMA Board of Trustees expressed gratitude to Founding sponsors Concord and Caroline's Cakes for their long-time support.
