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Composer Track

Live Workshop with a Composer

Observe professional Western ACDA composers work with a live choir as they experiment with a new piece for the first time. Watch musical wrinkles get ironed out in real time and see a new work come to life.

Composition Masterclasses

Casual opportunities to get feedback on pieces from fellow composer moderators. Open to conductors who compose, as well as official composer track attendees.

Composer Tool Kit Session: “Idea Fest”

Hear big ideas for concerts, programming, and new works in conversations between conductors and composers. Listen as the panel brainstorms possibilities to bring these ideas to life.

WACDA Reading Session

Read through a selection of works by Western Region composers, both experienced and emerging.

Composer Fair

Meet Western Region composers, discover new works, and make new mutually beneficial connections. Tables located near exhibit hall and interest session rooms.

Hear the New Commission from Winning Composer, Lauren Biggs

In the opening conference session, the commission born from our emerging composer competition will be premiered. This piece will also be included in the packet for all conference attendees.

Composer Lounge

Find the composers in their area in the exhibition hall throughout the conference to talk all things new music, take selfies, get scores signed, or just hang out. Open during exhibit hours.

Special Conference Pricing Available for Independent Composers
Call For Scores for the WACDA Reading Session

Now accepting score submissions from both established and emerging composers for the WACDA reading session as well as the official WACDA YouTube playlist. More info can be found at: https://acdawestern.org/2024-conference-call-for-scores/

Submissions due November 30, 2023

Register for a table at the Composer Fair
  • Tables will line the hallway of the Pasadena Convention Center immediately outside the Exhibit Hall, and adjacent to Interest Session Rooms
  • Two composers will share a 6′ skirted table. Placement based on order of receiving payment.
  • Tables will be available for composers to staff during Exhibit Hours, and Saturday at the convenience of the composer. 
  • Composers are encouraged to bring perusal scores and audio playback with headphones
  • Non-ACDA Member Fee: $95
  • ACDA Member Fee: $45
  • Limited space available
Sign up here!
Deadline for registration: February 2, 2024