Mighty Young Composers!

This is a two-week program that requires registration in advance.
Capacity is limited. Slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Free. To register, email HMSGeducation@si.edu.
June 22, 2026–July 1, 2026 | Monday through Friday
Morning Session (rising 3rd and 4th graders): 10:30 AM–12:00 PM
Afternoon Session (rising 5th and 6th graders): 1–2:30 PM
Public concert: Thursday, July 2 and Friday, July 3, 4 PM
What if a painting could become a piece of music?

In this multiday workshop, students (rising 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th graders) will explore how artists across disciplines inspire one another and develop the skills to create and compose their own music.
Inspired by the New York Philharmonic Very Young Composers program, launched 30 years ago by composer and bassist Jon Deak, and in conjunction with the Hirshhorn’s resident new-music ensemble, the 21st Century Consort, the Hirshhorn’s Mighty Young Composers! program is led by teaching artists Theresa Cigan, Noam Faingold, and Mikhail Johnson.

Students will:

• Explore sounds made by a variety of musical instruments
• Experiment with unique methods for communicating musical ideas to a musician
• Craft original compositions with guidance from professional musicians and teaching artists
• Hear their compositions performed by members of the National Symphony Orchestra and the 21st Century Consort at a public concert at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

How to register:
To receive registration materials, please email HMSGeducation@si.edu and include: 

• Parent/Guardian full name: 
• Parent/Guardian email: 
• Child’s full name: 
• Child’s age: 
• Child’s grade: (i.e. rising 5th grader)
• What prior music experience does your child have if any?
• Has your child participated in Mighty Young Composers at the Hirshhorn before?

No prior music training is required. Students need to bring only their curiosity and imagination.
Questions? Email HMSGEducation@si.edu with “Mighty Young Composers” in the subject line.