Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
The New York Songwriters’ Circle announced that it is now accepting submissions for its third annual Songwriting Contest. Twelve finalists will be selected to perform before a panel of music industry judges and a live audience at the NYSC finale event in November.
The contest will also include an International Award and a Young Writer Award. The International Award will be given to an outstanding songwriter originating from anywhere outside the U.S. to help further their career in the U.S. The Young Writer Award will recognize a young songwriter between the ages of 8 and 18. Winners will receive cash and prizes, a chance to include their song on an upcoming NYSC CD release and performance opportunities at concert venues, a halftime concert series at Madison Square Garden and the Jones Beach concert series.
“I love to develop new talent and the voice is a way of expressing that talent, our true voices express our true selves,” said Tina Shafer, artistic director of the NYSC. “The same can be said for a great song. It is a bit of pure truth, which can really transform someone.”
The Songwriters’ Circle was established 18 years ago with the intent of showcasing new and upcoming talent through bi-monthly concerts. The Songwriting Contest began in 2005 to bring together music executives and songwriters.
The deadline for contest entries is Sept. 30.
More info: songwriters-circle.com
Peplowski first came to prominence in legacy swing bands, including the final iteration of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, before beginning a solo career in the late 1980s.
Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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