March 21-24, 2012

Brucker Hall, Fort Myer, Virginia

National Trombone Composition Competition

Over the years our workshop has evolved as a gathering place for trombonists from around the world. This congregation of talent provides the ingredients for new, progressive ideas and concepts to be shared with those who have a love of the instrument. Our hope is to offer an avenue for composers to showcase their particular talents by giving them the opportunity to compose new literature for the trombone canon. Each year the composer whose piece is selected by committee will be performed during the workshop. It is our desire to add to the body of literature for a number of different genre to include solo works with piano, trombone quartets and solo works with large ensemble. Therefore, we will set specific guidelines from year to year. This year composers will submit a composition for solo bass trombone with accompaniment of 1-8 wind instruments and/or electronic media.

For example (but not limited to the following):

  • Bass trombone and mixed brass ensemble (up to 8 accompaniment parts)

  • Bass trombone and trombone ensemble (up to 8 accompaniment parts)

  • Bass trombone and saxophone quintet

  • Bass trombone and tape

  • Bass trombone and percussion

The winning piece will be performed during the 2012 ETW. The work should be between 10-15 minutes in duration. The winner will be announced January 20, 2012. All entries may be considered for performance. Composers who are interested are encouraged to submit their piece to the ETW selection committee byJanuary 1, 2012. Please send:

  • Anonymous score
  • Anonymous recording
  • CD format only (MIDI realizations are acceptable);
  • A sealed envelope containing an information sheet with the work’s title, composer’s name, address, telephone, and email
  • A SASE for return of materials (international submissions cannot be returned). MAIL TO: The United States Army Band ETW National Trombone Composition Competition c/o SSG Dale Moore 400 McNair Road Fort Myer, VA 22211

Past Winners

2011 - O Crux John Orfe

2010 - trombone quartet Mark Scott

2009 - bass trombone and piano 3 Pieces - Ken Davies

2008 - tenor trombone and piano Preludes for trombone - Kenneth Amis

Updated Thursday, October 6, 2011 11:32 AM