Society for New Music


The Society for New Music is a contemporary classical music organization based in Syracuse, New York. SNM presents concerts devoted entirely to contemporary music, funds commissions, produces recordings and presents awards to young composers.

History

SNM was founded in 1971 by Neva Pilgrim with the main purpose of promoting contemporary music in the Central New York Region.

Mission and Work

SNM commissions new works, and advocates for composers through Society News and via their radio show, Fresh Ink on WCNY-FM. SNM provides regional musicians with opportunities to perform music by their peers. Works are offered on television, radio, and live performances.

Commissions

Since its inception, SNM has commissioned new works by over fifty composers from the Central New York region, including faculty from Syracuse University, the Eastman School of Music, Cornell University, and many other schools in the area. Many of the composers have won significant awards, such as the Pulitzer Prize in music.

SNM Commissioned Composers

Recordings

The Society for New Music has released recordings on a variety of labels, including Innova Recordings, Composers Recordings, Inc. and Mode Records. SNM's "American Masters for the 21st Century" on Innova currently includes five albums dedicated to music by living American composers.

Brian Israel Prize

Since 1985, SNM has awarded prizes to composers under age 30. The annual award honors the memory of American composer Brian Israel "who died of leukemia at the age of 35 in 1986. He was on Syracuse University's School of Music faculty at the time of his death. During his short life, Israel championed gifted emerging composers." Winners receive performances of a chamber work, either of the work that won the award, or a different work.

Brian Israel Prize Winners and Honorable Mentions