TellTale Opera Theatre (Baltimore, MD) seeks completed works from composers for voice plus instruments (options below) that speak to the theme of “Resistance.” Works should be no more than 6 minutes in total length, and the composer must be able to provide documentation of rights to any text utilized.  TellTale invites submissions that expansively interpret the concept of "resistance." Here are some questions to consider: What does resistance mean? What is being resisted, on an individual or systemic level? How does resistance manifest, either through bold action or in small daily practice? What can resistance look like? Our ideal concert program would feature pieces that present a spectrum of ways to look at resistance. We acknowledge that resistance can be bold and confrontational, just as it can also be joyful, humorous, and community-focused.

Eligibility
Composers of any training level or education background are invited to apply.

Instrumentation:
Scores must be written for up to three of the following (must include at least one voice)

TellTale Ensemble

• 1 Baritone

• 1 Soprano

• 1 Mezzo

• 1 Tenor

Instruments available

• Piano

• Cello

• Viola

• Saxophone

• Electronics (must specify)

Works that fall outside of this instrumentation or are longer than 6 minutes in duration will not be considered.

Application:
There is a $10 suggested donation. Though not a requirement, these funds will be used to compensate an independent panel as they review scores.  Eligibility will not be affected by whether or not an applicant makes a donation.

Materials Required:
Submitted Score

Link to Audio

Short bio

Short answer (300 word maximum) - how does this piece encompass the theme of “resistance”?

Prizes:
This will be judged by an independent panel of members of the Baltimore arts community and members of TellTale’s collective of artists. Winners will have their piece performed at an upcoming TellTale Opera Theatre concert during the 2025-26 season in Baltimore, MD. Travel to Baltimore for the performance is not required, but always welcome. TellTale cannot offer a travel or housing stipend at this time. Up to 10 winners will be selected. 

Note
Composers who identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous Person of Color) are strongly encouraged to apply, as well as those who identify as gender-marginalized, including (but not limited to) women, non-binary, and trans composers. Additionally, music-makers who primarily create outside of a traditionally “contemporary classical” musical space are strongly encouraged to apply. Works that explore multiple genres, or genre-blend are also welcome.

Submit your applications here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1gN9TdG0SBktT2757N-_N1AMRC6_nvqLx6LMz3APIa9Y/edit