Short Description
Abu Dhabi International Competition for Composition (ADICC) is a prestigious global platform for emerging and established composers, created to advocate for contemporary music, nurture creative talent and empower the next generation of musical visionaries.
Founded by the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) as part of Abu Dhabi Festival, ADICC aims to recognise and reward composers of all nationalities by providing a platform to showcase their talents, gain international recognition and perform their original works on the world stage.
Whether you’re a young composer or a seasoned musician, ADICC invites you to step into the spotlight, showcase your passion, and apply now to join our global community committed to innovation, excellence and shaping the future of music.
Categories
ADICC 2025 welcomes submissions from composers worldwide in the following categories:
- Orchestral Work – original composition for orchestra with a maximum duration of 10 minutes.
- Solo Instrument – original solo instrument composition for piano – as the ADICC’s selected instrument the 2025 competition – with a maximum duration of 5 minutes.
Eligibility
- Open to composers of all nationalities born after 15 September 1975.
- Works must be original, unpublished, and unperformed prior to submission.
- Only one entry into one category is permitted.
Submission Requirements
- Application Form
- PDF Score (anonymous with a name of your choice)
- Audio file (live or MIDI)
- Composer Biography & Photo
- Concept Note; a short write-up to give context to your submission, highlighting your inspirations, artistic journey and creative process (300 words maximum)
How to Apply
Candidates must send their applications by registered post, bearing a postmark dated no later than midnight on 15 September 2025, to the following address: ADICC Secretariat – Level 3, Makeen Tower – 9th Street – AlZahiyah – E16 – Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates). Applications submitted by fax or email will be disqualified.
Program Benefits & Awards
| First Prize | – Commission + World Premiere Performance at the 23rd edition of Abu Dhabi Festival – AED 130,000 – Professional Recording – Score Publication Opportunity |
| Second Prize | – Performance & Mentorship – AED 50,000 – Publicity via our global network |
| Third Prize | – Mentorship – AED 25,000 |
Entry Fee
None
Location
United Arab Emirates
Timeline
- Application Deadline: 15 September 2025
Website Link: https://admaf.org/activities/adicc/
