composer WIN #5

It's a Solstice/Christmas/Hanukkah/Chrismukkah miracle. Just when I woke up a tad crummy due to (1) not waking up in time, (2) gaining a few extra pounds, and (3) realizing my orchestra piece wasn't writing itself (I might start crying if my ideas keep sucking so badly), I received this in my inbox.

I was so bummed yesterday morning that I didn't quite grasp the subject heading of "Invitation to the Atlanta Opera's 24-Hour Opera Project." I mean, I've been rejected before and I thought I'd received something similar to last year.

BUT NO—I didn't.

It looks like I'll be in Atlanta January 20–21 cramposing an opera in twelve hours with a librettist whom I've never met. The Fine Print:

"Compositions must be 7–10 minutes in length, written and performed in English and scored for 4 singers with piano. They will be composed around a specific theme (top secret until January 21!). Pre-existing compositions will not be eligible. Composition teams will be paired randomly, compositions will be assigned to stage directors randomly, and participating singers will be selected to perform through a singer “draft.” Submission of an application in any category does not guarantee participation. Artists may apply in more than one discipline, but will be invited to participate in only one discipline."

I have to work with my librettist between 6 p.m. on Friday (January 20) to 6 a.m. on Saturday (January 21). Hm…you know, I've only pulled off one all-nighter in my life (in Blonay of all places), so I'm crossing my fingers and hoping I survive this. In the meantime, I'll remain quietly excited.

Here are some videos from last year's inaugural 24-Hour Opera Project.