We are excited to invite composers to participate in our third annual Nā Haku Mele Call for Scores! This year, we celebrate the haku mele of Kenneth Makuakāne and Keola Donaghy. Your submission can earn recognition and performance at a reading session featuring collegiate ensembles in Hawaii.

Eligibility

1. The competition is open to all composers of all ages with a connection to Hawaiʻi and ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi
2. Co-authored works are allowed provided all authors meet eligibility requirements.

Composition Guidelines

1. Entries must be an original arrangement of “Hoʻokahi No Wai”, “Aia i ka Laʻi”, “Ke Kumu Mele”, or “Maunakea Kū Hanohano” OR an original composition setting one of these texts. Reference scores and texts can be found in this Google Drive folder. (Reference scores are imprecise and may include incorrect rhythms to accommodate multiple verses, and are just for your reference)
2. Arrangements and compositions should be original, unpublished, and unperformed works.
3. Arrangements and compositions for 2-part mixed voices, SAB, SSAA, TTBB, or SATB are welcome. Divisi should be minimal. Entries may include a piano accompaniment, but it is not required.
4. Entries must be less than 5 minutes in length.
5. Entries must be submitted as a PDF, produced using modern engraving or notation software. A MIDI realization is welcome, though not required.
6. Personal information should not be included anywhere on the score.
7. Multiple entries per composer are permissible; however, each entry must be submitted separately.

Submission Guidelines

1. Submit a PDF of your score and an MP3 recording or MIDI realization to this Google Form  (https://bit.ly/NHM2026) by 11:59 PM HST, December 20th.
2. Multiple entries are permitted, but only one piece from each Composer may be selected.

Selection Process

Winners will be selected by a panel of composers and adjudicators from Hawaiʻi including Dr. Erica Glenn, Dr. Thomas Goedecke, Justin Kaupu, Kumu Nola Nāhulu, and Dr. Alec Schumacker. The jury's decision will be final and indisputable. The panel reserves the right not to award any prizes.

Awards and Recognition

All participants will receive written feedback on their scores and winners will have their piece read at a joint reading session on January 31, 2026 at Hawaiʻi Pacific University by a combined collegiate choir of participating Hawaii colleges and universities.

Mahalo nui loa and good luck to all participants!