Joyful Abundance: Emerging Artists

As Mendelssohn Chorus of Philadelphia celebrates 150 years, and in honor of the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, MCP will highlight the city’s next generation of composers and poets through the Joyful Abundance Emerging Artist Commissioning Award. MCP will award commissions to five composer-poet teams who'll create 3-5 minute choral works for chorus and acoustic instrument exploring "What Now?" as part of ArtPhilly's city-wide semiquincentennial celebration. Each piece will debut in a world premiere performance featuring both the musical composition and its inspiring poetry that reflects Philadelphia’s diverse identities and perspectives. Selected artists will receive cash awards and professional mentorship to help bring their visions to life.