Overview
The application process is straightforward. To apply for American Music Abroad, you will need to submit an email application to American Voices and send us URL links to three contrasting video or audio files that have been uploaded to your YouTube account. Deadline for receiving applications is Friday January 18, 2013 at 5pm PST.
Applicants must fully complete the application form and send the required documents. Video and audio posted on your YouTube channel must meet the minimum standards listed as well.
The program is open to ensembles comprising trios, quartets and quintets. No musical group or individual musician may participate in the American Music Abroad program more than 2 times, including prior iterations such as The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad.
Application Overview
American Music Abroad is a partnership between American Voices and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The mission of the American Music Abroad program is to facilitate cultural exchange via musical performance and educational outreach. The ensembles selected will conduct regional cultural exchange tours in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Central and South America, and the Middle East for approximately one month. As part of your program activities, selected ensembles will conduct public concerts, lecture-demonstrations, workshops, jam sessions with local musicians and media outreach.
Prior to the respective tours, each ensemble will conduct a hometown kickoff concert and participate in the American Music Abroad @Home program in Washington, D.C., which includes a series of performances and workshops at local schools, immigrant community centers and foreign embassies.
All events nationally and internationally may be recorded, posted on social media and broadcast non-commercially.
American Music Abroad tours operate under the official auspices of the U.S. government. The U.S. Department of State funds international travel, hotels and meals. In addition, a modest tour honorarium of $200 per day spent on the road is awarded to each individual musician in an ensemble. AAV organizes the tours with the input of ECA/State Department.
An independent panel, including musicians, alumni of previous American Music Abroad tours, and representatives of ECA and American Voices will adjudicate the preliminary and final round selections.