The Joseph H. Bearns Prize In Music

Third: I give and bequeath...[a] trust...as a memorial to my deceased father, to be known as the "Joseph H. Bearns Foundation", the object of which shall be the encouragement of original composition in music.
— from the will of Lillia M. Bearns, February 3, 1921

The will of Lillia M. Bearns stipulated at least two prizes in composition. The awards for the 2006 competition total $7,200, divided among larger-form works (orchestral, choral, etc.) and smaller-form works (soli, quartet, sextet, etc.). It was the donor's desire to encourage talented young composers in the United States. The prizes therefore are open to United States citizens who are at least 18 and no more than 25 years of age on the first day of January of the year in which the award is to be given.

Compositions must be addressed to: Columbia University, Department of Music, 2960 Broadway, 621 Dodge Hall, MC 1813, New York, NY 10027, Attn: Bearns Prize Committee, and postmarked no later than March 17, 2008, to be considered for the awards announced in May. No more than one entry may be sent; instrumental parts will not be needed. Each score should be clearly marked with the composer's name and should be accompanied by a sheet of paper with the following information, either typed or printed:

1) Home address, telephone number, and email address;
2) Date and place of birth;
3) Social Security number;
4) Information regarding prior studies;
5) The title of work submitted and note of public performance, if any; and
6) A list of compositions to date.

A previous winner of the Bearns Prize may compete a second time, but not in two successive competitions.

Columbia University assumes no responsibility for the submitted compositions, and composers are cautioned not to send a composition of which they have no other copy. After the award has been publicly announced, every effort will be made to return the compositions safely, provided that the application materials have included:

1) a self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage; and
2) appropriate packing material.

The prize-winning compositions will be deposited in the Columbia University Libraries.