The ALEA III International Composition Prize was established in 1980 and has also been known under the names of the Politis Composition Prize and the Kucyna International Composition Prize. The purpose of the prize is to promote and encourage the composition of new music. Six works were chosen for performance at the final round on October 7, 2012.

ALEA III, Performing Arts Ensemble in Residence at Boston University, under the direction of Theodore Antoniou, will rehearse and perform the compositions of the six finalists. ALEA III is well known for its dedication to the presentation of new works and, owing to its flexible instrumentation, is uniquely suited to the performing group for this competition. Among the judges will be well known personalities of the Boston music scene.

At the end of the final round concert two works will be selected for a $1,500 and a $500 cash prizes respectively. The judges reserve the right to divide the award money or to decline to make any award.