Having completed the first year of workshops, composers and lyricists form a year-long partnership in their second year, to work on a single project of their choice. This challenge is focusing on building an entire score, usually from an existing source (e.g. romantic comedy, play). They must balance the dramatic and rhythmic needs of the story with musical structure, shaping the score to offer the audience an experience that is theatrically satisfying.

In their second year, composers and lyricists develop a musical voice that is uniquely their own but also serves the individual project. Members address specific problems as they arise and find creative answers to offer a rich and realistic collaborative experience. Great emphasis is placed on the specificity and intention of each song within the framework of a musical book. Eight song types are discussed and assigned, to broaden members' experience of musical theatre conventions and expectations.

At the end of the year, each team presents a section of their piece within a showcase to an invited audience. 

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