Encore (formerly the Performance Incentive Fund) expands contemporary repertoire by subsidizing multiple performances of new works. By encouraging individual and ensemble performers to add newly created works to their repertoires, it assists composers in securing the consistent performances that build and sustain their careers, and helps nurture relationships between composers and performers of new music.

Composers and performers apply jointly, and performers are required to work with composers whose music they have not previously performed. (Performers need not be specialists in playing new music.) Though Encore is not a commissioning program and will rarely provide full financing for projects, it directly supports performances and helps composers and performers leverage additional funding. Grants from $500 to $1,500 will fund at least three performances of a work over an 18-month period. (Grant amounts vary according to the duration, scope, and difficulty of the work.) The awards are made to the performers and may be used for rehearsal and performance costs.

Composers and performers must be based in different states with one party based in Minnesota (e.g., an ensemble in Arizona could apply with a Minnesota composer or a Minnesota soloist might work with a composer from Maine). Selected works may be premiered or unperformed, but must not have an extensive performance history. Performers are encouraged to explore ways of integrating the work into settings where new music is seldom heard, and to use creative or innovative programming should the work be presented in a more traditional concert setting.

For more information on Encore, contact David Wolff at (651) 251-2833 or dwolff@composersforum.org.

GET THE WORD OUT

Composers: If you're interested in having your works listed for performers to peruse, e-mail us with your name, city & state, title(s) of available work(s), duration and instrumentation of the work(s), and your contact information (may include e-mail, URL and/or phone).

Performers: To be listed on our roster of interested ensembles and soloists, e-mail us with your name, contact information, and performing forces.

Download a List of Minnesota-based Ensembles & Performers.

Download a List of Works by Composers. (updated July 14, '03)

Download full guidelines and application.

(This requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.)

Encore is made possible by a generous gift from an anonymous donor.

Years active: 1995-1998 and 2003-present
Composers Served to date: 55
Performers served to date: 46
Total number of performances funded: 276
Estimated size of live audience: 55,200
Application deadline: ongoing