Nurturing the Creation of New Choral Music

Solaris Vocal Ensemble is dedicated to bringing new and meaningful choral music to life. Through our Composer-in-Residence (CiR) Program, we invite a talented composer each season to collaborate closely with our ensemble, creating original works that reflect both artistic excellence and the spirit of community that defines Solaris.

We are pleased to announce our Composer-in-Residence program — a unique opportunity for a composer to work in close collaboration with our ensemble, guided by the creative leadership of James Stewart is open this fall for applications.

Composer-in-Residence, James Stewart

Guided by the creative leadership of Artistic Director, Dr. Dawn Willis and CiR Mentor, Dr. James Stewart is a versatile and accomplished composer/arranger whose catalog spans original works, creative settings of poetry and text, and inventive arrangements for choir, instrumental ensemble, and voice. On his website, he shares a rich variety of compositions including:

• A setting of Emily Dickinson’s The Brain Is Wider Than the Sky for SATB choir, piano and cello, which Solaris performed.

• A newly-created arrangement of May the Circle Be Unbroken, premiered in October 2023 by over a hundred singers.

• Creative reimaginings of carols such as Hark the Herald Angels Sing and O Come, O Come Emmanuel for SATB choir with unique accompaniment.

Don’t miss this season’s performances to hear his new arrangement of I Wonder as I Wander, and new commission, Shine On!

With his experience and visionary approach, James will serve as mentor and advisor to the next Composer-in-Residence—ensuring the commissioned works not only reach high artistic standards, but also reflect the expressive voice and mission of our ensemble. Click here to visit James’ web site and hear many of his commissions performed by Solaris.

The Composer-in-Residence program is designed to support and celebrate the art of choral composition, offering composers a rare opportunity to work directly with an accomplished vocal ensemble.

About the Composer-in-Residence Program

Each season, the Composer-in-Residence writes two new choral compositions or arrangements—one per semester—in consultation with Solaris’s Artistic Director and Assistant Conductor.

Throughout the creative process, the composer receives constructive feedback, mentorship, and rehearsal opportunities, ensuring each piece is shaped with care and brought to life by skilled, expressive singers.

What the Composer-in-Residence Will Do

Compose or arrange two new SATB works 3-5 minutes each (one per semester) in consultation with the Artistic Director and Assistant Conductor of Solaris.

Engage in rehearsals and receive ongoing feedback from our ensemble, the Artistic Director and from James Stewart himself as mentor.

Create works that will be premiered by Solaris, recorded, and offered for sale on our website—giving your compositions a wider audience and potential income.

What You Gain as the Composer

• Compose for an ensemble known for its musical excellence and expressive performances.
• Hear their music performed, refined, and recorded during the concert season.
• Receive a professional recording of their work following the performance.
• Have their music featured and offered for sale online, earning royalties from sales.
• Receive a stipend for their participation in the program.
• Have the option to include a promotional ad in Solaris concert programs each semester.
• Have the option to include a promotional ad in Solaris concert programs each semester.

A Creative Partnership

This program offers more than a commission — it’s a collaborative artistic experience that connects composers, singers, and audiences in the shared joy of creating something new. Solaris provides a supportive, professional environment where ideas can flourish and composers can hear their music realized at the highest level.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Choral Music

If you’re a composer passionate about writing for voices and excited to engage with an ensemble committed to excellence and creativity, we invite you to learn more about our Composer-in-Residence program.

Contact us at director@solarisensemble.org and include a cover letter, CV, examples of your choral writing (scores and recordings (midi acceptable), and a brief statement of interest describing what you might like to explore in collaboration with Solaris and James Stewart. Applications due January 1, 2026 for the 2026-2027 season.