NOTE: The 2019-2020 competition is now closed.
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ONE OUNCE OPERA’S 5th ANNUAL CALL FOR SHORT OPERA SUBMISSIONS!
Composers and librettists: We’d like to formally invite you to submit work to our 5th Annual Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera Competition. Winning pieces will be produced and performed by One Ounce Opera in Austin, Texas, as part of the first – and only – short opera showcase in the state.
THE 2019-20 COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.
This will be the 5th annual Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera (FSOO) – the premier short opera showcase of Texas. The popular, award-nominated event celebrates new works and contemporary voices. Creators who identify with a historically underrepresented group (women, people of color, LGBTQ+ folks, etc.) are highly encouraged to apply.
In addition to having works produced, fully staged, and performed in Austin by a cast of professional singers, One Ounce Opera spotlights each composer/librettist in an informal interview that includes questions from the cast. Each work is highlighted in our newsletter and on social media, and each winner receives a professionally-edited live video and audio recording. At each performance, attending composers/librettists will be acknowledged and awarded a certificate (and some swag).
See composer spotlights and videos from 2018’s 3rd annual FSOO.
Creator spotlights for 4th Annual FSOO are here. Videos from the 4th Annual FSOO are here.
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FAQ:
Where can I see the official rules for the FSOO competition? Guidelines appear on the entry form. The application link is live between June 1st- August 1st, 2019. Please review the rules in detail before submitting any work. Works that do not fit within the guidelines will not be considered.*
When are the performances? FSOO will be two weekends in late February/early March 2020. Exact dates will be posted soon.
Where do you stage the shows? One Ounce Opera transforms a raw, flexible artists’ warehouse in East Austin into an unexpected space for opera performance. The vibe is laid back, accessible, and inclusive.
How do I submit my files? On the entry form, you will supply a link to an online folder. We must be able to download the score, libretto, and an mp3 of the work. For accuracy, please convert all text/score files to PDF and all MIDI files to mp3 before sending. Example of what/where to upload and link to: Dropbox folder, Google Drive, YouTube, SoundCloud, other storage methods that can be accessed via link. The required materials are listed on the form. Please note: direct email of materials will not be accepted.
Will you perform my work with orchestra? FSOO performances are with piano only. We will perform from your piano/vocal score, so make sure it’s performance-ready before submitting.
Am I allowed to submit more than one work? YES! As long as each submitted work follows the guidelines of the competition, we welcome multiple entries. Guidelines can be found on the form.
I submitted more than one opera. Could they BOTH be chosen? YES! However, it is highly likely only one would be chosen.
You guys have chosen my work before. Could I enter again this year? YES. Past winners are welcome to submit new work.
How will I know if my work was chosen? Winning works will be announced via Facebook and a post on this site, and the winners will be notified shortly thereafter. Copies of all parts and any revisions will be due at that time.
How do I keep up with any new developments in the competition? For the latest details, we strongly suggest following One Ounce Opera on Facebook, and adding yourself to the Facebook event page. We will add you to our FSOO newsletter, as well.
Once again, when exactly is the deadline? The hard-and-fast deadline for entry into FSOO was 11:59pm on August 1st, 2019. Only complete applications — with all required materials received as requested by the deadline — will be considered.
I have a question not answered here. How do I get in touch? Click here to send us a message about the competition!
*Note: the competition in 2019-20 is for short operas only. Art songs and song cycles are not being reviewed this fiscal year.