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Eligibility & Judging

Eligibility & Judging

Who can apply

You may enter HMD Harmony if:

  • You are aged between 18 and 25 (inclusive) on Monday 9 November 2026.
  • You are resident in the United Kingdom.
  • You are applying as an individual or as part of a group.

 

Composition requirements 

Your submission must:

  • Be entirely original work.
  • Not have been commercially released.
  • Be no longer than two minutes in duration.
  • Be suitable for live performance at the UK National Holocaust Memorial Day Ceremony.
  • Be accompanied by a written statement of 150-300 words explaining how your composition responds to the theme No Place for Prejudice.

Musical Style

Your composition may:

  • Be in any musical style or genre.
  • Be instrumental, vocal or combine music and lyrics.
  • Be written for a solo performer, group or choir.
  • Require no more than four instrumentalists for performance.

We welcome submissions from creators of all musical backgrounds and experience levels.

 

Judging Criteria

Entries will be judged on:

  • Musical quality and craftsmanship.
  • Creativity and originality.
  • Connection to the theme ‘No Place for Prejudice’.
  • The ability to communicate ideas and emotions through music.
  • Suitability for inclusion in the UK National Holocaust Memorial Day Ceremony.

Judges will be looking for authentic, thoughtful and impactful musical responses that demonstrate the power of music to connect people, inspire reflection and encourage hope for the future.

Particular consideration will be given to compositions that reflect themes such as shared humanity, belonging, empathy, resilience and building a society where there is no place for prejudice.

The accompanying written statement will also be considered as part of the judging process.

 

Important Note

All submissions should demonstrate respect for the Holocaust and the experiences of all those who were persecuted, or who experienced prejudice and discrimination.  We encourage entrants to explore themes of hope, courage, belonging and human connection. We are particularly interested in music that inspires reflection, empathy and a positive vision for the future.