What? The aim of the Co-Creation Workshop is to explore and develop a collaborative model in contemporary music creation, where the composer and performers are "in the same boat" from the very beginning of the process until the completion and premiere of the work. Getting to know one another, discussions, reflection, feedback, improvisation, and experimentation all play a crucial role.
Three meetings will take place during the season. The first focuses on presenting initial ideas, discussions, reflection, improvisation, and gathering source material and concepts.
For the second meeting, composers are expected to present partial material of the work. Different approaches to the score are encouraged—it can be traditionally notated, text-based, graphic, video, action-based, or otherwise. The ensemble will work with the prepared material, play through it, provide feedback, discuss, and search for solutions.
By the third meeting, composers are expected to have completed their works. This session involves rehearsals, refining details, and finalizing solutions. A public concert will conclude the third session.
A guest is invited to each meeting to reflect on the process from their perspective.
Why? The goal of this approach is to step away from the common "assembly line" of contemporary music—commission, score, rehearsal, premiere, oblivion—to build much closer relationships between the composer and performers. It allows for shared time, mutual learning, blurring the boundaries of roles, and creating situations where the question of authorship is no longer entirely clear.
For Whom? Three young composers (under 35 years old) can participate in the project. Everyone interested is welcome to attend and observe.
When? The working sessions will take place on:
Nov 14–15, 2026
Feb 20–21, 2027
May 15–16, 2027
Where? At Estonian Centre of Contemporary Music, Pühavaimu 9, Tallinna, Estonia.
How Much Does It Cost?
Participation in the process is free for everyone. The selected composers will receive a €3,000 fee for creating the work. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the Estonian Contemporary Music Centre.
How to Apply? To apply, please submit a letter of motivation explaining why you wish to participate, a concept note (a vision of the proposed work), a CV, and links to your previous selected works. Applicants must confirm their full availability for all working sessions and their readiness to create a new work, which will premiere at the Estonian Contemporary Music Centre on May 16, 2027.
Application Deadline: October 15. Results will be announced on October 25.
Questions? Send an email to
The Co-Creation Workshop takes place within the framework of the Ulysses Platform, co-funded by the European Union.
