The “International Space Time Concerto Competition” has a total prize pool of $50,000 and aims to embrace the future and promote the present.

Richard Vella, a distinguished composer and Professor of Music at the University of Newcastle, whose brainchild the prize is, says entries are welcomed by any undergraduate, postgraduate or international student, or alumni of any Australian tertiary institution, who shares a keen interest in excellent musicianship and cutting edge creativity.

There are two categories, one for the historical form of the concerto, as well as an innovation category to showcase contemporary interpretations of the form.

The competition seeks musicians from all genres, including but not limited to classical instrumentalists, orchestral players, jazz, contemporary bands, electronic and new media artists.

It hopes to encourage collaborations with composers, performers, producers, AV/mixing engineers, all working together to produce innovative new works.

The competition sees a creative collaboration with, the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music in Singapore, Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing,Waikato University in New Zealand and Ars Electronica in Austria.

The six finalists will perform with an accompanying orchestra at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music Concert Hall in late 2012.

Another two finalists will have the rare opportunity of being accompanied by an international internet-linked ensemble spanning five countries.

The prize money for this competition has been sponsored by benefactor Jennie Thomas with further donations from the Friends of the University.

Entries for The International Space Time Concerto Competition are open until July 1, visit www.spacetimeconcerto.com