The Symphonic Jazz Orchestra Opens Its 11th Annual George Duke Commissioning Prize Competition

The Symphonic Jazz Orchestra (SJO), founded and led by Music Director Mitch Glickman, is pleased to announce the 11th Annual George Duke Commissioning Prize Competition.The competition honors the memory of keyboardist, composer, and producer George Duke, who served as SJO Co-Music Director until his passing in 2013.

The Prize
The selected composer will receive a $5,000 commission prize to write an original work for the SJO, a world premiere performance by the orchestra, permanent entry into the SJO's catalog of symphonic jazz commissions, and a one-year Sibelius Ultimate license from AVID.

Who Can Apply
The competition is open to composers at all career stages and backgrounds. The submission deadline is August 15, 2026. The winner will be chosen by the SJO’s Music Advisory Board.

Past winners include Meg Okura, Ryan Cohan, Christopher Zuar, Jihye Lee, Remy Le Boeuf, Patrick Dandy, Scott Routenberg, and Alan Chan.

"We are thrilled to enter the 11th year of this competition and welcome a new voice into the symphonic jazz tradition George Duke helped define.This is always one of the most meaningful things we do as an organization."
- Mitch Glickman, Music Director, SJO

About the SJO
Created in 2002, the 68-member SJO is a unique hybrid ensemble
dedicated to blending the worlds of jazz and classical music through its commissioning, performing and educational programs. The SJO has shared the stage with Dave Grusin, Christian McBride, Lee Ritenour, MarcusRoberts, Luciana Souza, The Yellowjackets, Keyon Harrold, Miguel Zenon,and George Duke.

To apply for the Symphonic Jazz Orchestra’s George DukeCommissioning Prize, please visit www.SJOmusic.org/commissioningprize