6th Warren Benson International Composition Contest – Franco Cesarini to evaluate works in the semifinal round

For the sixth edition of the prestigious composition competition, which now bears the name of an illustrious figure in WASBE, Warren Benson, 90 submissions wew received. Due to the great number of applicants the results of the first round for Categories I and II will be announced on January 5, 2026.

Six works will advance to the semifinal round. These works will be evaluated by an internationally renowned panel consisting of Frank Ticheli, Adam Gorb, Franco Cesarini, and Yasuhide Ito.

Three finalist works per category will compete in Rio de Janeiro. Announcement of the finalists is expected by February 16, 2026.

Regarding Category III “Emerging Composers,” the finalists are:

• Jui-Ying Huang (Taiwan)
• Joanne Na (Korean – American)
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Both composers will take part in a workshop with Jodie Blackshaw in Rio de Janeiro. Congratulations!