The aim of Stichting Trillende Lucht (Oscillating Air Foundation) is to encourage composers whose music forms a world of their own or who are clearly in the process of creating a world of their own. One of the ways in which the Foundation seeks to achieve this aim is by creating a biennial award for composers, known as the Open Ear Award. The award is presented irrespective of age, length of career, gender and/or nationality, and is intended as a mark of appreciation for the composer’s oeuvre, or for a substantial part of it. The award consists of a work of art, a bronze ear entitled OPEN EAR, created by artist Ansuya Blom, and a financial reward. An award-winner is named every two years by an independent jury. Composers cannot apply for or be nominated for the award.