The Willgoss Choral Composition Prize aims to encourage and inspire emerging Australian composers to create unique, original choral works, in support of UNSW’s thriving choral program and increasing presence in the Australian music scene. 

Being passionate supporters of Australian music, Dr Richard and Sue Willgoss hope their contributions will make a lasting impression, and invite all composers, musicians and members of the general community to celebrate our rising composers and Australia’s future in choral music. 

Open to all Australian citizens and permanent residents of any age, composers must submit an 8–10 minute original SATB or SSATBB choral work (with no further division of parts) that has not been previously performed, recorded or rewarded in previous composition competitions. 

The prize recipient will receive $AUD3000, in addition to an amazing opportunity for the work to be premiered by UNSW’s elite chamber choir, the Burgundian Consort in October 2023. 

Applications for the 2023 Prize will be accepted 19 July 2022 at 9.00am EST until 31 January 2023 at 5.00pm EST. The winner will be announced by Monday 27 February 2023. 

There will be only one winner of the Prize awarded.

How To Apply

Applications for the 2023 Prize will be accepted from 19 July 2022 at 9.00am EST. Click here to be taken to the Application Form.

How the Winner is Chosen

A jury of three will select the winner of the Prize.  The jury will comprise of the Choral Director of the Music Performance Unit (or nominee) as Chair; one member of the academic staff of the School of the Arts & Media (specialising in composition); and one leading choral director from an external organisation, by invitation.

Previous winners:

2020-21 | Oliver John Cameron - five lullabies for uncertain times

2019-20 | Philip Eames - This Great Unrain

2018-19 | Ronan Apcar - Preludes

2017-18 | Owen Elsley - the stars

2016-17 | Matthew Orlovich - Sonnet, to the comet of 1825