Call for entries to FASO’s first orchestral composition contest
FASO will perform the winning entry in its first International Orchestral Composition Competition. RICK GAVINO
LOS ANGELES — The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the only Filipino symphony orchestra outside of the Philippines, is calling for entries to its International Orchestral Composition Competition.
The orchestra launched its first composition competition to promote Philippine folk music and to commemorate its 10th anniversary this year.
FASO, which is under the musical direction of Robert “Bob” Shroder, is encouraging composers to submit original compositions for full orchestra (no vocals) that incorporate themes from any Philippine folk songs and are between three and five minutes in length.
The winning composition will have its world premiere in FASO’s 10th anniversary concert on Nov. 3, 2018 at the Alex Theatre in Glendale. Cash prizes are $1,000 for the first prize and $500 for the second prize.
Louie Ramos, FASO’s vice president and resident arranger, said that the competition’s objectives are “to provide an opportunity for budding composers and arrangers to improve their skills in composing and arranging for a symphonic orchestra; to learn about Filipino folk songs and culture and help them discover their identity; to recognize their craft; and to provide audiences with an experience that makes them proud of Filipino music and talent.”
Ramos added, “The contest is open to anyone, Filipino and non-Filipinos anywhere in the world. Filipino contestants get an opportunity to give Philippine folk songs a new ‘look’ and a new way of appreciating them. Overseas Filipino contestants are given an opportunity to learn about themselves and their heritage. And non-Filipino contestants will have an opportunity to learn about Philippine music traditions.”
Ramos explained that the competition reflects the various facets of FASO, which is led by a board with Arlene Ferrolino as president. “Shows and concerts are just part of what FASO does as a whole,” he said. “Our primary mission is the enrichment of Filipino culture through orchestral music so running these contests is another way of achieving that. Moreover, we have a whole education and outreach program that we run yearly. You can find more information about our programs here.”
The deadline for the submission of entries is on July 31, 2018 at 11:55 p.m. (PST). The entry form, rules and requirements are posted here.
