NDSU Composition
Composer Pins
The NDSU Composition Program awards a Composer Pin to composers whose music has been publicly performed on an NDSU stage.
The pin marks a simple but meaningful milestone: the moment when music moves from the page into the world.
Why a Pin?
Composers spend countless hours sketching ideas, revising scores, and working with performers. But a piece of music is not complete until it is heard.
What It Means
The Composer Pin recognizes a public artistic accomplishment shared with performers and audiences. It is not awarded for coursework, grades, or declaring a major.
Why North Dakota?
Shaped like North Dakota and finished in NDSU green, the pin reflects the belief that composers do not only emerge from major cultural centers. They emerge from Fargo, too.
The Rules
Simple, public, and the same for everyone.
“Real Artists Ship.”
Composer Pin Recipients (In Progress)
Each recipient represents a premiere, a performance, and a work brought to life by performers.
Spring 2026
- Ashley Polkinghorn — The Last Word
- Harrison Hanson — Scopaesthesia
- Kevin Day — Centerstage
Fall 2025
- Jonathon Erickson — The Treant’s March
- Owen Cary — White Moon
Can Anyone Earn One?
Yes. Composer Pins are awarded based on accomplishment, not affiliation.
Students, faculty, alumni, guest composers, and collaborators may receive a Composer Pin if their music is publicly performed on an NDSU stage.
The rules are the same for everyone.
A Beginning, Not an Ending
The Composer Pin marks the first visible step in a composer’s public artistic life. Many recipients continue on to present recitals, publish music, collaborate with ensembles, receive commissions, and pursue further creative work.