The US Embassy, Nairobi’s Public Affairs section is pleased to announce an open competition for One Beat, a music exchange programme that will bring foreign musicians from several countries around the world to the United States for a residency and tour.
About One Beat
One Beat is an international music exchange project that brings together musicians from around the world through a residency and tour program focused on creative collaboration and social engagement.
This peer exchange will invite more than 50 young professional musicians (ages 19-35) to the U.S. to work with their American counterparts in the composition and the performance of new cross-genre works, the creation of innovative recordings & videos, and the development of practices of music as civic and social engagement.
Who is eligible to apply?
One beat is open to musicians ages 19-35, who demonstrate both an advanced proficiency in their musical work, an interest in cross genre collaboration, and an experience with or interest in developing ways to use music as a way to improve their communities. Musicians from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, with or without formal musical training, from all genres, including BUT not limited to: hip hop, traditional, experimental, electronic, jazz, classical, sound design, beat making, multimedia art, DJ-ing, audio engineering, or any combination of these styles. They are especially looking for musicians that have a strong commitment to their communities, seeking new ways to engage youth, arts-in-education, music therapy, conflict resolution, and many other ways of working towards more egalitarian and democratic societies.
What expenses will be covered for the participants?
All costs will be covered for the fellows, including travel, food, and accommodation. Fellows will also receive a per diem and modest honorarium.
Can Artists nominate themselves?
Yes, artists can apply without being nominated by anyone else.
What are the artist’s selection criteria?
1.Musical Excellence: A high level of performance, composition, improvisation, production and/or technological skill. Ideally OneBeat musicians will be innovating either stylistically, lyrically, or technologically within their own musical worlds.
2.Collaboration: Applicants willingness to cross cultural and genre divides in creating original music, or re-interpreting traditional music, while trying to maintain the essence of each tradition.
3.Social Engagement: Musicians must have used music to serve their communities or greater societies. This might consist of starting a music school, promoting peace and democracy through musical contest, reviving dying musical traditions and more. In addition participants should be eager to tour to smaller and mid-sized cities of the US to engage with citizens including other artists through performances, workshops, discussions and social activities.
4.Age: Applicants must be 19-35
5.English Proficiency: Applicants should be able to converse in Basic English, as it will be the common language of all OneBeat fellows.
6.Country of Origin: OneBeat fellows must live full time in one of the 38 eligible countries, and have NOT travelled to the US or have rarely performed in the US.
7.Internet proficiency: Ideally participants should actively use email and be able to connect to internet to participate in OneBeat website based activities.
Timelines
Application Opens: January 16, 2012
Applications Closes: February 24, 2012
OneBeat Fellowship notified: April 2012
Programme Dates: September 11-October 7, 2012
For more information visit their website: www.onebeatmusic.org
Read more information about this initiative here
