2026-27 Competition Cycle

We are pleased to announce the winning work of the 2026-27 cycle, which will be performed in its entirety at the national conference in January 2027 in Minneapolis :

So You May Breathe in Light, Music by Theo Chandler; Libretto by Lydia Hwang and Theo Chandler

Congratulations to the finalist works, excerpts of which were presented by Boston Conservatory at Berklee at the Boston conference in January 2026:

• The Drifterman, Music and Libretto by Connie Harris
• The Haberdasher Prince, Music by Rosabella Gregory; Libretto by Dina Soray Gregory

Congratulations to the creators of all the finalist works!

About So You May Breathe in Light (website)

Synopsis

So You May Breathe In Light follows the story of an ‘Explorer’ (baritone), as he is guided by a ‘Healer’ (mezzo-soprano) through the dreamlike world of his own imagination. The Explorer’s journey allows him to acknowledge his long-held shame, and discover a new way of relating to the world.

The opera begins with the Healer's calming voice, as she opens the Explorer's mind so he may enter into his inner world. Once inside, the Explorer finds himself enveloped by a turbulent vortex of lights. The Healer explains to him that these lights are a visual manifestation of his mind – each light represents a thought. Witnessing this symbol of his rational mind allows him to bring awareness to his recurring thought patterns. He discovers that he has never forgiven himself for a memory he holds – a memory of hurting someone. Rooted in this memory, the Explorer has developed an underlying belief that he is fundamentally harmful, that by existing, he causes others pain. Knowing that there is more to the story, the Healer encourages him to to meet his Shadow, the darkest part of himself, the part of himself he has chosen not to see. The Explorer continues deeper into his imagination and is suddenly transported to a dungeon. He begins to panic, assuming his Shadow is his cruelty coming to attack him. To his surprise, the Shadow reveals herself not as a harmful being, but as a sickly, withered prisoner. She is the embodiment of his Loving Self (soprano), who he has neglected. In his attempt to protect the world from the harm he believes he causes, he has starved himself of love and connection. Supported by a new perspective, he can begin healing.

Performing forces

Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Baritone

Flute, Clarinet, Violin, Cello, Percussion I, Percussion II, Piano

Length: 28 minutes