A new national music competition has been launched, inviting amateur musicians from across the UK to submit solo performances inspired by birdsong.
The Lark Music-Making Competition is open to anyone aged 18 and above, regardless of genre, instrument or level of experience. Participants will be asked to perform a piece of music linked to birds in some way – through its title, theme or overall mood. Both original compositions and interpretations of existing works are accepted, provided the entry is a personal performance, according to an announcement.
Organised by Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) in partnership with Lark Music Insurance, the competition offers cash prizes of £1,000 across three age categories. The prize money is intended to support individuals in furthering their musical interests, such as purchasing equipment or dedicating time to practice.
In addition to the prize funds, finalists will receive a complimentary subscription to the BSO’s 2025/26 Digital Concert series, valued at £170. The series includes 19 concerts, streamed live and available on-demand for 30 days.
A panel of judges will review the entries. Performances will be assessed on musicality, interpretation and originality. Recordings do not need to be professionally produced, and submissions may be made using smartphones or home recording setups, the announcement added.
The judging panel includes broadcaster Tom Service, Bond violinist Tania Davis, sound engineer Chris Caton, and several representatives from the BSO and Lark Music Insurance.
The competition is part of a broader collaboration between the BSO and Lark Music Insurance, which also supports a range of regional community programmes, including BSO Young Associates and Symphony from Scratch. These initiatives aim to increase access to music-making for people from a range of backgrounds and abilities.
“We can’t wait to hear what you’ll do with this brief — the creative possibilities around birds and birdsong are endless,” said Lucy Warren, joint head of BSO Participate and a member of the judging panel. “Whether it’s a classical work, jazz or world music, or a brand-new creation, this is all about personality, expression and joy in music-making. However you play, we can’t wait to hear your music.”
Dougie Scarfe, CEO of Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra said the competition celebrates millions of people who make music in homes, sheds, churches and community halls across the UK. “We see the transformative impact of music every day – this competition is our way of shining a spotlight on that remarkable passion and talent,” Scarfe added.
“We’re delighted to work together with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and launch the Lark Music-Making Competition, giving amateur musicians the platform to showcase their creativity. Whether you’re playing for discovery, connection, or joy — this is your moment to be heard and celebrated,” said Brian Hillstead, partnership account executive at Lark Music Insurance.
