Call for proposals: Interactive DJ presentations at ACCES 2022

As one of the leading exchange platforms for African music, ACCES wants to give delegates an opportunity to discover and learn about African genres, and provide accurate information on the elements that make up our vibrant musical styles. We seek proposals that give an informative, entertaining and innovative overview of a particular, current music genre from across the continent, and that speak to local, African and international audiences. Two DJs will be selected to fill in two available slots.

ACCES is organised by the MIAF in a different African city every year, attracting active music industry players from across the globe to exchange ideas, discover new talent and accelerate the shaping of the vibrant music sector in Africa. Over three days, this year’s edition will offer a robust programme including industry talks, keynotes, live performances, networking sessions, workshops, exhibitions, collaborative recording spaces and visits to key music hubs in the host city.

ACCES was previously held in Dakar (2017), Nairobi (2018), Accra (2019) and Johannesburg (2021). Over the years, the event has become a platform for influential music professionals to give back to the sector. The event has hosted artists such as Mr Eazi (Nigeria), Samini (Ghana), Sarkodie (Ghana), Mulatu Astatke (Ethiopia), Baaba Maal (Senegal), Ebo Taylor (Ghana), Eric Wainaina (Kenya), Sampa the Great (Zambia), Cheikh Lô (Senegal), Blinky Bill (Kenya), Efya (Ghana) and many more.

The application deadline is 25 September 2022 at midnight CAT.

Format and content 

Each presentation:

• Can involve one or two presenters/DJs and is limited to 30 minutes.
• Is presented in English, French or Swahili.
• Should combine spoken and audio elements in an informative and innovative approach. Imagine a big screen, mic and a basic DJing set up, in front of a dynamic audience.
• Must focus on an African music genre.

Presentations should:

• Be cutting-edge and worth sharing with a local, African and international audience.
• Be dynamic and skilfully presented.
• Offer insight into the history, influences, aesthetics, sound and cultural aspects of the proposed music genre.

Note: Presentations that also include interactive, performative aspects and visuals are advantageous. All music genres are welcome. ACCES will provide the necessary equipment, including PA, screen and Djing equipment.

Benefits

ACCES will provide the successful applicant with:

• A dedicated time slot and visibility in the official programme.
• A Music In Africa Premium Exposure Plan package, which includes free advertisement on the Music In Africa portal.
• Return flights (economy for one individual)
• Airport transfers.
• Accommodation for one individual for the duration of the event.
• Conference shuttle (from partner hotels)
• Full-access pass for the duration of the event. 

Please note:

• Applicants should be prepared to be available for the duration of ACCES and to present on 25 or 26 November 2022.
• Applicants based outside Tanzania must have a valid passport.

How to apply

1. After reading the call carefully, create (if you haven’t already) a profile on the Music in Africa Artist & Industry section using this link: https://www.musicinafrica.net/user/register. Make sure that your profile is complete and up-to-date, as this is the profile that the Curation Committee will review. Here is an example of a profile: https://www.musicinafrica.net/node/21539.

Your profile must include the following: 

• A clear biography.
• At least three latest song/mix releases.
• At least one live performance video.
• At least two high-resolution promotional photos and credits.
• Social media links. 

You may find your profile already created by a Music in Africa contributor. In this case, you would need to follow the online steps to claim it. Once you have control of your profile, make sure to update the information. An email address can be linked to one Music In Africa profile only. 

2. Complete the application form in ENGLISH or FRENCH. Email applications will not be considered.

Note: The form will not allow applicants to save and complete later. Before you complete it, make sure you have all the required information.

Selection process

Application deadline: 25 September 2022 (midnight CAT).

• Eligible applications will be reviewed by the ACCES Curation Committee.
• All applicants will be notified by 7 October 2022.
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Only applications submitted via the dedicated online form will be considered.
• Late applications will not be considered.

For enquiries and information, email Ms Claire Metais at claire@musicinafrica.net.

Application forms

• Access the ENGLISH application form HERE.
• Access the FRENCH application form HERE.

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