The Lutheran Youth Choir of North America, a national auditioned touring choir for high school youth formed in 2006, has initiated a new annual International Choral Composition Contest with a $500 First Prize.  This year's entry deadline has been extended to April 1, 2010.  All composers age 18 and older, from any country, who desire to contribute to the genre of excellent sacred music suitable for high-school-age singers are invited to apply.  In addition to the cash award, the winning composition will be premiered by the choir on its annual summer tour.  For more information, go to www.lutheranyouthchoir.org.