RSC Launches Shakespeare Song Competition

Today the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) launches Shakespeare's Birthday Song Competition. Open to professional and amateur composers aged 18+, the RSC is asking for a new musical composition, setting the words from one of Shakespeare's much loved songs to music. The winning song will be performed at the RSC's 2015 birthday celebrations in his hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon.

The competition will be judged by RSC Head of Music Bruce O'Neil, who will select the finalists to be entered into a public vote. The winning song will be performed at 'Shakespeare's Birthday Bash' on Sunday 26 April 2015, an evening of words and music celebrating the midway point between the two Shakespeare anniversary years.

RSC Head of Music Bruce O'Neil said: 'Shakespeare's plays are filled with music and song and his lyrics have been set to music by many famous composers at RSC from Ralph Vaughan Williams to Laura Marling. This is your chance to be amongst those names and compose an original song for Shakespeare's birthday in 2015, and see it performed at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Good luck!'

All compositions must be submitted by Monday 23 March 2015 and need to abide by the following requirements:

• Be a setting for a solo voice and accompaniment
• Use one of the listed texts of Shakespeare's lyrics provided on the RSC website
• Be a maximum of 4 minutes duration
• Be submitted in digital audio form, with an accompanying written score of the melody and chords to songcompetition@rsc.org.uk
• The work must be original and unpublished

Further information about the competition along with the texts entrants can select from is available here: www.rsc.org.uk/songcompetition.