CALL: RPS Composers programme 01.04.26

The RPS Composers programme is a development programme for promising UK-based composers establishing their careers. We offer a paid commission and premiere with a noted ensemble, venue or festival, dedicated mentoring, and professional support to help composers embed the skills, confidence and networks needed to build sustainable careers.

Applications for the 2027 RPS Composers programme are now open, and will close at 11am on Wednesday 1 April 2026.

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Annually, the RPS Composers programme aims to transform the prospects of promising UK-based composers, with creative and vocational support, at critical turning points in establishing their careers. Annually we form a cohort of around eight composers, offering each a grant and a commission to write for one of our programme partners – a range of noted ensembles, venues and festivals. We aim to help the cohort develop the skills, confidence and contacts they need to seek further commissions and performances of their own beyond the programme.

We are specifically looking for composers in the early stages of their careers who are secure in their compositional writing and will benefit from a year-long range of activities and support. Composers will join us for preliminary sessions later in 2026, before the programme fully gets underway in January 2027.

The RPS Composers programme includes the opportunity to:

• develop a creative relationship with an ensemble, venue or festival

• meet and draw insights from key figures in the music business and professional composers

• be part of regular online vocational workshops in a supportive group environment to fuel your confidence and ability to promote yourself and your music

• receive individual mentoring with the RPS team, looking at your own personal objectives and how we might help you to fulfil them

Through the programme, we aim to give you insights into the range of settings in which you and your music can have real impact, encouraging you to think more about the scope of everything you can do as a professional composer.

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deadline: 1 April 2026