Universal Names Eight Composers for 2026-2028 Initiative
Universal Talent Development launched the fourth edition of the Universal Composers Initiative, with DreamWorks Animation and Universal Studio Group Music participating.
Universal Talent Development, in partnership with Universal Film Music and with participation from DreamWorks Animation and Universal Studio Group Music, has launched the fourth edition of the Universal Composers Initiative, according to Variety. The 2026-2028 cohort comprises eight emerging composers: Annah Tencic, Marcus Norris, Logan Nelson, Katya Richardson, Kristen Personius, Forrest Gray, Claudio Olachea and Jeremy Earnest.
The two-year program gives participants access to the studio process, creative and professional development, and possible opportunities to pitch for NBCUniversal scoring projects.
Program Background
The initiative was established in 2018 to find artists from traditional and non-conventional professional backgrounds. Since its inception, 10 alumni have gone on to score NBCUniversal features across Universal Pictures, Focus Features and DreamWorks Animation, and 90% of alumni have been hired on an NBCUniversal-related project, including animated TV series, shorts, documentaries and theme park music.
Quick answers
Who are the composers in the 2026-2028 Universal Composers Initiative?
The eight participants are Annah Tencic, Marcus Norris, Logan Nelson, Katya Richardson, Kristen Personius, Forrest Gray, Claudio Olachea and Jeremy Earnest.
What does the Universal Composers Initiative offer?
The two-year program provides emerging composers with access to the studio process, creative and professional development, and possible opportunities to pitch for NBCUniversal scoring projects.
When was the Universal Composers Initiative founded?
It was established in 2018 to find artists from traditional and non-conventional professional backgrounds.