2026 Call-for-Scores

The [Switch~ Ensemble] and Overdrive Festival NYC are happy to announce our 2026 Call-for-Scores. One work for 3-7 musicians and technology will be selected for a performance on the 2027 Overdrive Festival in Manhattan at the Graduate Center’s Elebash Recital Hall on April 8, 2027. Additionally, any submitted works will be considered for our future programming. We hope to choose additional works to include in upcoming seasons, and see this as an excellent way to become acquainted with the work of composers unknown to us. Those who have not previously participated in the Overdrive Festival are especially encouraged to apply.

Application Form:

https://forms.gle/pactbUXhc8NBSzAr9

Deadline

Submission materials due December 1st, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Submission materials

Composers should submit one recent work for 3-7 musicians from the below instrumentation. Please submit scores and recordings with a link via Dropbox or equivalent service. Scores and recordings must be anonymous. No composer names or identifying information anywhere on the score, nor in the file titles.

One application is free, without entry fee. For additional works by the same composer, we request a $5 tax-deductible donation for each additional work submitted. This donation can be made at the following link: https://fundraising.fracturedatlas.org/the-switch-ensemble

Core Instrumentation:

• flute (dbl. bass/picc)
• clarinet (dbl. bass)
• saxophone (alt/bar)
• piano
• percussion
• violin
• cello
• conductor
• 2 technologists/electronics performers

Eligibility

The [Switch~ Ensemble] is principally interested in supporting emerging composers, but we understand that “emerging” means something different to everyone—and that emerging composers come at a wide range of ages. Generally, we think of emerging composers as either (1) still enrolled in post-secondary or graduate study, (2) still seeking or only recently-appointed to full-time musical employment, (3) still on a trajectory of development and self-renewal in musical thinking, or (4) composers for whom this would represent a significant opportunity.

Selection Process

The winning work will be scored for 3-7 musicians and should incorporate electronics, multimedia, or technology in a significant way. Duration of the new work can be between 5 and 15 minutes. The winning composer is welcome to join the ensemble in NYC April 6-9 for a rehearsal and the performance, but we are unable to provide transportation or lodging expenses. All works will be reviewed by a panel of ensemble and festival leadership.

Percussion List

• Bass Drum
• Vibraphone, Glockenspiel
• Large Tam-Tam, Opera Gong
• Woodblocks
• Bongos, 2 Tom-Toms, Snare Drum
• Suspended Cymbal
• (anything large not listed may not be available)

PIANO PREPARATION RULES (Elebash Recital Hall, CUNY)

• Preparations may use plastic, paper, rubber, or other non-metallic materials that do not damage or leave residue on the instrument.
• Metal objects or materials of any kind are strictly prohibited for piano preparation, including, but not limited to, screws, bolts, paper clips, coins, wire, or other metal components.
• White-out, tape, markers, stickers, adhesives, or any other materials that may leave marks or residue may not be applied to the strings or any other part of the instrument.
• The dampers must not be touched, manipulated, prepared, or used for the attachment of any material or object. The damper mechanism is particularly sensitive and can easily be thrown out of regulation.
• During the installation and removal of all preparations, care must be taken to ensure that no objects or materials fall onto the soundboard or into the piano action.
• All preparations must be fully removable without causing damage, alteration, marking, or residue to the instrument.

Available Tech

• amplification & DSP (all instruments close-mic’d)
• video projection
• quad diffusion (up to hex may be possible)
• networked cameras/live video (up to 3)
• audio or visual click tracks are possible
• software and hardware for networked computing, gestural tracking, polytemporality, etc. (Sensors, Polytempo Network, Max, PD, Supercollider, etc.)
• Please clearly specify below if any additional equipment is required.

​Questions? Please contact [email protected]

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