Omega Ensemble Announces Five Emerging Composers For CoLAB 2022

Omega ensemble has announced five talented emerging composers who have been selected to 
be part of their CoLAB: Composer Accelerator Program. Following a competitive national selection process, the successful composer for 2022 are: Mark Holdsworth (31, WA), Julia Potter (26, NSW), Christopher Healey (31, VIC), Sophie van Dijk (24, NSW), and John Rotar (26, QLD).

These composers will work with Omega Ensemble intensive nine-month program to each develop a substantial new work to be premiered at the Sydney Opera House in November. They  will also work under the mentorship of leading Australian and international composers including Carl Vine (AU), Gordon Kerry (AU), Nico Muhly (US), Missy Mazzoli (US), Holly Harrison (AU) and Christopher Cerrone (US).

Artistic Director of Omega Ensemble, David Rowden says “The CoLAB program was launched in 2021 to support talented young composers in pursuing their professional careers. The works produced by the inaugural participants, and the outcomes achieved, were significant. Following that success, we have been overwhelmed with applications from around Australia for the 2022 program. Selecting only five composers was an immensely difficult decision, but those participants selected for 2022 each demonstrated highly-developed skills, a unique musical voice, and a determination to further their professional careers.”

The final works will be premiered at the Sydney Opera House on Thursday 3 November as part of the annual New Now showcase. Tickets will be available closer to the event.

Image: CoLAB participant Mark Holdsworth