2026 JACK Studio Readings

Applications are now open for 2026 JACK Studio Readings. The deadline to apply is Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 11:59pm ET.

APPLY HERE.

The application is free and is open to everyone. US citizenship or residency is not required. Selected artists will have existing works for string quartet read by the JACK Quartet. The quartet will offer feedback and make professional audio and video documentation to be used by the composers for academic and professional applications as well as non-commercial promotion.

Readings will take place in December 2026 in New York. Selected composers may attend in-person or virtually.

Questions? Check out the FAQ’s below.

Keir GoGwilt and JACK Quartet rehearse at the 92NY, March 2026.
Photo by Cherylynn Tsushima.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Applications to 2026 Studio Readings are now available and due on October 22, 2026 by 11:59pm ET.

    Applications to Studio Residencies closed on March 6, 2026.

    The best way to stay informed of application deadlines is to join our mailing list or follow us on Instagram, @jackquartet.

  • No! There are no educational requirements to apply to JACK Studio Readings or Residencies.

  • JACK has worked with many composers who have devised their own styles of notation, and we’re excited to experiment with graphic scores, improvisation, and text-based directions.

  • For Readings: The work sample must be a completed string quartet.

    For Residency Applications: Work samples that show your musical interests, and particularly your use of string instruments, are recommended.

    Work samples can be links to PDFs, streaming audio recordings, or video (Google, SoundCloud, DropBox, etc). A reminder: Please edit the share settings on any files so that we can open them!

  • You can apply for both a Reading and a Residency if you wish. Applicants will only be accepted for one program, not both.

    To read more about the differences between readings and residencies, click here.

  • Due to the high number of applications each year, we do not accept letters of recommendation or references.

  • You must submit a PDF of your string quartet score in order to be eligible for JACK Studio Readings. This score can be notated however you’d like.

  • If you have additional questions, please contact Tracy Mendez, Development and Marketing Manager, at tracy@jackquartet.com.