Awards and Competitions

The William Klenz Prize in Music Composition 

Awarded to a graduate or undergraduate student for excellence in composition. 

The Julia Wilkinson Mueller Prize for Excellence in Music

This award is in honor of a former chair of the Department of Music and member of the Ciompi Quartet. It goes to a graduating senior for achievement in musical performance. 

The Henry Schumann Music Prize

This prize is awarded to a graduating senior for an original composition or a distinguished paper in music history or analysis.

The Paul Bryan Award

Presented to recognize outstanding musicianship and exemplary service to the Duke University Wind Symphony. This award is given in honor of Professor Emeritus, Paul R. Bryan, professor of Music and conductor of the Wind Symphony (1951-1989).

The Benenson Awards in the Arts provide funding for fees, travel and other educational expenses for arts-centered projects proposed by Duke University undergraduate students, including graduating seniors. Students who plan to pursue a career in the arts or creative industries are especially encouraged to apply. Application information here.

Each year the Office of Vice Provost for the Arts awards a cash prize of $2,000 to the graduating senior selected as the outstanding student in the creative and performing arts. Students do not apply directly for the award but rather are nominated by arts program/department chairs, who are invited to forward one nomination each. Nomination guidelines here.