RSNO Film Composers Lab 2026/27: UK Animators' Short-Film Call Closes November 1
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra (RSNO), working with Animation Scotland, has invited UK-based animators to submit short films for the 2026/27 Film Composers Lab. Chosen animations will become the basis of new orchestral film scores by participating composers and are expected to feature in a public presentation in Scotland. This listing concerns the animation-filmmaker route, not the separate composer application round.
Who can submit an animation?
This opportunity is for animation filmmakers based in the United Kingdom. The organisers request an existing completed animated short film, approximately four to seven minutes long, suitable for rescoring as part of the lab. An applicant outside the UK should not assume an international submission is allowed solely because the film may be screened publicly or shared online.
What happens to selected films?
The lab brings together selected filmmakers and five participating composers, whose original film scores are developed with access to the RSNO. The programme is expected to culminate in orchestral recording in Scotland and a public Glasgow screening in summer 2027. Animators should read the official production terms for rights, project coordination and any requirements concerning existing audio tracks before submitting a film.
An important distinction: two different application tracks
The official announcement includes a composer track and an animator track with different closing dates. Applications from composers closed on October 2, 2026. The animator short-film call is listed as open until Sunday November 1, 2026 at 5pm UK time. Do not use the later deadline to submit as a composer, and do not mistake the composer's closed date for the animator deadline. Given the short remaining window, filmmakers should check the official submission form immediately.
Is there an entry fee or cash award?
The verified call describes a professional collaboration and orchestral recording opportunity, not a cash-prize competition for animators. No standard cash prize or required entry fee is asserted here. Any contractual, travel, licensing or production support arrangements should be confirmed directly with RSNO before the filmmaker commits.
About the organiser
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra is a long-established professional orchestra and Scottish registered charity, with its base in Glasgow. Its education, community and recording activities include projects connecting classical musicians with screen media and new creators. Animation Scotland partners on this film-focused programme.
Official source reviewed October 28, 2026. This article is an independent information summary and not an RSNO application channel. Always check the current closing time and filmmaker participation agreement on the original website.