Commissioned Composer Program

MMTA is dedicated to supporting the creation of new works by American composers. 

The Massachusetts Commissioned Composer Program recognizes an outstanding professional composer with a commission award of $2,000 and a premiere performance at the biennial Quad State Convention. The Quad State Convention occurs every two years in either Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, or Maine.  

The commission is not a prize for an existing composition but rather a means of encouragement for a recognized composer to create a new musical work.

The winning composer of the Massachusetts Commissioned Composer program will also be considered for the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Distinguished Composer of the Year award.  Each MMTA commissioned piece is automatically entered into this national competition, which serves to promote and recognize outstanding contributions to American music.  

The winner is selected by a panel of recognized composers. The MTNA Distinguished Composer of the Year receives an award of $5,000, and their newly commissioned piece is presented in a concert performance at the next MTNA National Conference.

Dorothy Travis, Commissioned Composer Chair

Eligibility, Guidelines and Submissions Process:

Submission for 2026-2028 are now open.