In May 2002, Meet The Composer announced the final round (IX) of the three-year New Residencies program (the program will officially conclude in 2005). MTC will launch a new program in 2004-2005.

New Residencies joins music performing and presenting organizations (orchestras, jazz ensembles, choruses, presenters, chamber groups, opera, dance, and theater companies) with community-based organizations such as neighborhood centers, community development corporations, public housing authorities, social service agencies, schools, service clubs, churches, and others to work with a resident composer for three years.  Each resident composer writes a number of works for host institutions, celebrating local culture and integrating the newly created work into the lives of people and their community.  In addition to writing music, composers also teach, organize cultural events, and promote local heritage.