Joseph H. Bearns Prize


The Joseph H. Bearns Prize in Music was established on February 3, 1921, by Lillia M. Bearns in memory of her father. The purpose of the prize is to encourage talented young composers in the United States. Administered by Columbia University, the prize is open to United States citizens who are between 18 and 25 years old. It is divided into two categories: larger-form works and smaller-form works. The Joseph H. Bearns Prize is one of the most significant awards granted to young American composers, and in 2006, it amounted to a total of $7,200.

Past winners