September saw the launch of the second Genesis Opera Project (previously known as the Genesis Prizes for Opera). Composers under 35 were invited to submit entries to create a new opera or music theatre work for no more than eight singers and small ensemble. Approximately six entries will be chosen for development, and extracts of these works will be presented at workshops in April 2004. Three will then be commissioned for performance at a London venue in June/July 2005.

The project was launched in Britain last year by Almeida Opera and the Genesis Foundation with the aim 'to give generous practical encouragement in the arts to those at the beginning of their professional careers'. The opera Thwaite (by Irish composer Jürgen Simpson and librettist Simon Doyle) was one of the three opera projects commissioned for full production at London's Almeida Opera festival in July 2003 and also at Aldeburgh.