Call for scores: 2026 Toy Music Festival in Seoul

This year’s edition centres on a thematic exploration titled The Plastic Jungle, encouraging composers to examine the sonic and conceptual possibilities of the toy piano in combination with unconventional instruments.

Festival Theme: Exploration of the Plastic Jungle

• The theme considers plastic as both a symbol of childhood imagination and a permanent, non-biodegradable material.
• Composers are invited to use the toy piano’s metallic and percussive qualities to construct an artificial sonic ecosystem.
• The definition of “unconventional instrument” is left entirely to the composer’s interpretation.

Submission deadline

• 31 March 2026

Eligibility and participation

• Open to composers and scholars of all nationalities and ages.
• Previously performed works are eligible.
• Selected participants are expected to attend the festival.
• Travel and accommodation costs are not covered by the organisers.

Work requirements

• Duration: 5 to 7 minutes
• Works must feature a toy piano, either alone or in combination, as outlined below.
• Composers may provide their own performers or submit under the festival’s listed categories.

Submission categories

1. Toy piano and unconventional instrument
   (37-key, 30-key, or 25-key toy piano; combinations permitted)
2. Toy piano and piano / toy piano and melodic duo
3. Toy piano for six hands
4. Multiple toy pianos with melodic instruments and other combinations

Toy piano ranges

• 37-key: F3 to F6 (three octaves)
• 30-key: C4 to F6 (two and a half octaves)
• 25-key: C4 to C6 (two octaves)

Submission materials

Applicants should submit:

• A PDF score of the composition
• A short biography (100–200 words)
• A programme note (100–200 words)
• An audio recording (strongly encouraged)

Materials should be sent to myth5118@naver.com.

Performance details

• Selected works will be performed in concert in November 2026 in Seoul.
• Performances will be delivered by the Seoul Toy Piano Ensemble.
• Additional festival details will be announced at a later date.

View the original call here.

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