Guildhall School of Music & Drama — Composition Summer Course

This five-day composition course at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama is designed for young composers to develop their composition skills and write a piece for a small instrumental ensemble. You will work closely with a composition teacher and performers on your own music, learning about instrumental writing, technique and how to develop your ideas.

The course culminates in a showcase performance of participants' work. Across the week participants take part in group composition classes, receive one-to-one tuition, work with instrumentalists to try out ideas, and write a piece for a string quartet which is workshopped, rehearsed and performed in an end-of-course showcase.

Participants will also receive a mastered audio recording of their piece. The course is led by composer and Guildhall tutor Paul Whitmarsh. How to apply: complete the online application form (click 'Apply Now'), submit a 250-word statement outlining your composition experience and goals, and upload a portfolio of two fully notated compositions (PDF).

Audio files are optional. Spaces are limited; bookings close at 17:00 on Friday 3 July 2026 or when capacity is reached. Participation bursaries are available (bursary deadline 27 April 2026).

Accommodation is not provided.