Sound of Freedom
Residency program for artists
Sounds of Freedom is a residency program designed to provide small groups of active musicians with the opportunity to develop their own sound and improvisation skills over the course of a month, free from distractions.
This unique program allows selected musicians to fully immerse themselves in experimental, avant-garde, and free improvised music. It offers a chance to perform together, grow as individual musicians, and develop as members of an ensemble while exploring new directions in music. Throughout the four weeks, participants are guided by experienced mentors who have been active at the highest levels of the free jazz, avant-garde, and free improvised music scene for many years.
The purpose of these scholarships is to support, encourage, and mentor emerging talent in the field of creative improvised music. The program also provides financial compensation to the mentoring musicians for their participation. The total value of what is offered to each participant is approximately $10,000 for the month-long residency.
The program is publicized through social media, advertisements in specialized experimental music publications, radio, and word of mouth, with mentors frequently recommending the program to younger musicians they work with.
Selection Criteria
Applicants for the Sounds of Freedom residency are evaluated based on the following criteria:
Active involvement: Must be an active musician currently engaged in creative, experimental music.
Technical proficiency: Assessed by the Program Director and team based on the submitted music sample.
Musical style and contribution: Consideration of how the applicant’s style would contribute to the group’s overall sound.
Collaboration: Adaptability and willingness to work collaboratively with other ensemble members.
Applicants are required to submit a music sample as part of their application. The Program Director, along with mentors and support staff, reviews all submissions and selects participants based on their profile, technical skills, style, and potential contribution to the ensemble.
