The AACC Music department invites students, faculty and guests to the AACC New Music Festival — a day of exploration, performance and creative exchange in contemporary music. This festival will feature workshops, a master class with a guest composer and a joint recital of student and faculty works.
9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Workshops (30-minute sessions)
Participants may attend multiple workshops. Each session is designed to be accessible to students with varying levels of experience.
Anthony Pocetti — Application of Modular Synthesizers
Lynda Dembowski — Clarinet and Effect Pedals
Jerry Ascione — Introduction to Composition
Dan Shomper — 20th/21st Century Music Preparation
Tobias Russell — Writing and Arranging for the Singer/Songwriter
Paul Dembowski — Topic TBD
1-3 p.m. — Master Class with Guest Composer
Acclaimed composer Tyler Harrison will teach this interactive master class. Student works will be presented and discussed, and attendees will gain insight into the creative and practical aspects of contemporary composition.
3:30-5 p.m. — Student Composition and Faculty Works Recital
A performance of selected student compositions and works by AACC faculty. This program will showcase the breadth of new music being created within the department and the community.
AACC and AACPS students are invited to submit original compositions for performance in the festival’s recital. All submissions will be reviewed and approved by the AACC music faculty.
Open to all currently enrolled AACC and AACPS students in composition, performance and related fields. Compositions may be instrumental, electronic, mixed media or otherwise innovative in format.
Submit a complete, legible score (PDF format).
Include a brief program note describing the piece (100 words maximum).
If the piece includes electronics or effects, include a list of technical requirements.
Optional: If a recording is available, include a link (e.g., YouTube, SoundCloud).
All materials must be submitted to Ian Wardenski (iawardenski@aacc.edu) no later than Jan. 1, 2027. Late submissions will not be considered.
The AACC music faculty will review all submissions. Composers of selected compositions will be notified by mid-January. Performers and composers will receive rehearsal scheduling information shortly after selection.
Date: Saturday, April 3, 2027
Anne Arundel Community College
Cade Center for Fine Arts
101 College Parkway
Arnold, MD 21012
Free for AACC and AACPS students
$5 general admission
We're here to help with questions about the festival or composition submissions.
