The UnCaged Toy Piano
Composition Competition for toy piano and electronics
The goal of the competition is to expand the music repertoire for toy piano and electronics.
Invented in the 1900's, toy pianos usually have a 2-3 octave range and are built of metal rods and plastic hammers. The tuning is slightly different on each instrument. The toy piano has yet to be discovered for all of its charms by many composers. Due to the quirkiness of the tuning and limitation of range, the electro-acoustic hybrid of toy piano and electronics is an untapped new medium.
The competition is seeking:
- works for solo performer with multiple toy pianos
- works that use interactive computer electronics with toy piano(s)
- works with either pre-recorded or interactive multimedia/video (strongly encouraged)
- works that use computer-based alternate controllers with toy piano(s)
- solo toy piano music
There are no age or nationality restrictions for this competition. Pieces can be any length but please give us an estimate.
The top five pieces will be performed by Phyllis Chen in Spring 2008 in NYC at a venue TBA. The top three selections will be awarded cash prizes of the following:
- 1st place: $300 and a 39-key concert grand toy piano generously donated by the Schoenhut Toy Piano Company, Inc.
- 2nd place: $200
- 3rd place: $100
Judges for the competition include:
- Phyllis Chen
- Andre Watts
- Rob Dietz
- Norbert Herber
- Du Yun
Provided:
Phyllis owns a collection of 7 toy pianos with a range between 2- 3 octaves (F3-F6 concert grands, C4-F6 baby grand, C4-C6 uprights). Please specify what range of instrument you would like to be considered for your piece.
There will be a stereo and quadraphonic sound system playback for the electronic components. There is no specification of software programs or technologies that are required. Please indicate the platform/program and we will contact you with further questions if necessary.
Submission:
Deadline: December 15th, 2007
Please submit a score and CD if available. If there is a visual component, you may submit a DVD or Quicktime Movie. A composer biography is optional but helpful.
Please email uncagedtoypiano@yahoo.com with any questions you might have.
