‘Songs of a Young Nation’ Competition Inspires Young Musicians to Bring America’s First Century to Life

(Washington, D.C.) — For the second consecutive year, the American Battlefield Trust and the Ray and Vera Conniff Foundation are partnering to inspire young musicians to compose songs of America’s past. This year's contest, Songs of a Young Nation, seeks original compositions reflective of America’s first century, from the Revolution to Reconstruction. The contest is open to all musicians ages 15 to 30 — including high school and college students, as well as young independent, unsigned artists. 

“Music is deeply woven throughout the rich tapestry of our nation’s history,” said Trust President David Duncan. “I look forward to hearing the ways these talented young artists connect our past to the present through song.” 

Musicians are asked to submit a 60- to 90-second original composition or reinterpretation of a historical song. Entries are now open, and musicians have until 11:59 p.m. PT on December 31, 2025, to submit their composition. Winners will be announced in February 2026, just in time for America’s Semiquincentennial.  

This year, prizes will be awarded in four categories: Best Historical Treatment, Best Original Composition, Best Use of Historical Instruments and Best Performance. Entries will be automatically considered across all categories for which they qualify, and each category’s winner will receive a $3,500 cash prize. 

An esteemed panel of judges will be joining to determine the best of the best, including country music star and former Trustee Trace Adkins, Tamara Conniff, partner and CEO of Amplified Music Rights, Tommy Skeoch, musician and former Tesla band member, and Bret Werb, Music Collection Curator at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. 

For more information and complete submission guidelines, visit the Trust’s website. 

The Songs of a Young Nation Competition comes on the heels of last year’s Music & The American Revolution Competition, which invited young musicians to showcase their creativity while capturing the vibrant, complex spirit of America’s revolutionary era. Three outstanding winners rose to the challenge, composing works that bridge generations and connect us with our nation’s past.   

The American Battlefield Trust is dedicated to preserving America’s hallowed battlegrounds and educating the public about what happened there and why it matters today. The nonprofit, nonpartisan organization has protected more than 60,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, and Civil War across 160 sites in 25 states. Learn more at www.battlefields.org. 

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