The LSO-Panufnik Young Composers Project is a highly successful scheme developed from Panufnik’s stated belief that composers need a form of apprenticeship in order to be able to compose with maximum quality for the greatest musicians and finest symphony orchestras of the world. Developed by the London Symphony Orchestra together with Panufnik’s widow, Camilla Jessel Panufnik, this prestigious opportunity is offered annually to talented young composers from classical, jazz and other musical backgrounds, started in 2005, and is now supporting 6 new selected composers resident in Britain in developing their skills and getting to understand the workings of one of the world’s great orchestras.
With the support of the Helen Hamlyn Trust, 45 talented composers have benefited from the scheme, with commissions from many orchestras as well as invaluable know-how. The LSO considers this one of its “flagship” education projects. Competition to be one of the annual six is now very strong, with 110 applicants this year.
You can watch a film about the scheme here.
