The Michael Ludwig Nemmers Prize in Music Composition honors composers of outstanding achievement.
The Henry and Leigh Bienen School of Music at Northwestern University established the biennial award in fall 2003. Nominations are solicited worldwide and the winner is determined by a selection committee comprising individuals of widely recognized stature in the music community. The prize includes a cash award of $150,000. The recipient is expected to participate in two nonconsecutive weeks of residency at the Bienen School of Music interacting with students and faculty. All previous winners are listed below.
Michael Ludwig Nemmers Prize Criteria
The Michael Ludwig Nemmers Prize in Music Composition will be awarded to a music composer who shows the highest level achievement in a body of work and a unique creativity. Composers must be nominated, preferably by recognized authorities in the field, such as prominent artists, critics, scholars, or administrators, via a letter submitted electronically to the Selection Committee.
The Michael Ludwig Nemmers Prize is for outstanding career achievement rather than a specific work.
The Prize is international in focus and therefore open to any composer without regard to citizenship or institutional affiliation.
Only living composers may be nominated.
The person receiving the award must be available for two nonconsecutive residency weeks at Northwestern University and able to interact with faculty and students. A cash allowance will be provided to the winner to cover expenses connected with the residency.
Former or present members of the Northwestern University faculty and previous winners of the Nemmers Prize are ineligible.
Nominations are Open
Nominations must be submitted by email to nemmersmusic@northwestern.edu. See guidelines below.
Deadline: January 14, 2026