Universal Composers Initiative Announces 2026–2028 Cohort, Supporting the Next Generation of Film and Television Composers

NBCUniversal continues its commitment to developing emerging creative talent with the announcement of the fourth cohort of the Universal Composers Initiative (UCI), a two-year program designed to provide composers with mentorship, professional development and opportunities to build meaningful connections across the entertainment industry. 

Established in 2018, the Universal Composers Initiative identifies talented composers from a range of professional and creative backgrounds, providing participants with access to NBCUniversal's studio executives, filmmakers and creative teams. Through hands-on experiences, networking and mentorship, the program helps composers further develop their craft and gain exposure to potential scoring opportunities across NBCUniversal's portfolio. 

The 2026–2028 cohort includes eight composers: Annah Tencic, Marcus Norris, Logan Nelson, Katya Richardson, Kristen Personius, Forrest Gray, Claudio Olachea and Jeremy Earnest. 

“These are working composers who are maybe more at an emerging level, and what we want to do is provide a level of access, connectivity, experience, education, and insight,” said Mike Knobloch, President of NBCUniversal Music and Publishing, Universal Film, in an interview with Variety. 

Building a Pipeline of Creative Talent Across NBCUniversal 

Since its launch, the Universal Composers Initiative has helped connect emerging composers with opportunities across NBCUniversal's businesses. 

• 90% of program alumni have been hired to work on an NBCUniversal-related project. 

• 10 alumni have gone on to score feature films across Universal Pictures, Focus Features and DreamWorks Animation. 

• Alumni have also contributed to animated television series, documentaries, short films, restoration projects, commercials and theme park music. 

“At NBCUniversal, we are deeply committed to discovering and empowering new talent,” said Brandon Williams, SVP, Universal Talent Development, Universal Entertainment. “The Universal Composers Initiative reflects that commitment by providing emerging, high-achieving composers with meaningful, real-world opportunities to grow their careers within our studio ecosystem.” 

By connecting talented composers with the people and projects shaping entertainment, the Universal Composers Initiative reflects NBCUniversal's continued investment in creative talent and the next generation of storytelling. 

Read more about the 2026–2028 Universal Composers Initiative cohort in Variety.