MusicXwords is a developmental project implemented by the Music In Africa Foundation (MIAF) in partnership with the Cultural Relations Platform. The project’s aims include, but are not limited to, facilitating exchange between spoken word artists and musicians in South Africa; providing training to participants and offering showcasing opportunities to participants within South Africa and across Europe, while actively strengthening collaboration between South African artists and European festivals, bookers and programmers.
MusicXwords FAQ
What is the MusicXwords project?
Where will I get information about the MusicXwords project?
We have set up https://www.musicinafrica.net/projects/crp-eu as your one-stop reference for all information related to the project, including eligibility criteria and how to apply.
How will the project work?
- This call invites spoken word artists and musicians based in South Africa to apply.
- A dedicated web platform on Music In Africa will promote participants, allowing them to showcase their content (audio and video) to European festivals, bookers and programmers. This platform will also act as a virtual marketplace, allowing musicians to promote their music and spoken word content seamlessly.
- A jury will select best applicants (up to 10) who will perform at a virtual concert in Johannesburg. All performers shall be paid for performances.
- Selected participants (up to 30) will also receive training in a workshop in Johannesburg.
- A showcase event (live performance) aired from Soda Studios in Johannesburg in October will offer participants a chance to showcase their talent to bookers from Europe and Africa.
- After the performance some performers (a minimum of five) will be selected to participate in festivals in Europe in 2022.
Who is eligible to apply?
South African musicians and spoken word artists from ages 18-40
What if I am both a musician and a spoken word artist, can I apply twice?
Yes you can. Although only strong submissions of an international standard will be considered. Applicants must be export ready.
Applicants will only be selected for one (either music or spoken word)
How many spoken word and how many musicians will be selected for the project?
This will be at the discretion of the jury.
Are you accepting applications in English only?
Yes. Only applications submitted in English will be considered.
What is the application deadline?
The call for applications is open from 23 August 2021 and will close at midnight on 22 September 2021.
How can I apply?
Digital applications can be made on the MusicXwords project home page under the “How to Apply” tab.
How long should my submission video be?
The video submission must/should capture one single performance of a musical piece/ song or poem.
The duration of the video should be between 1- 4 minutes long.
Applicants should ensure that their videos are of a high visual and audio quality.
Will Music In Africa have any rights over the work/items/content submitted?
No, all copyright and intellectual property remain in the ownership of the applicant. The Music In Africa Foundation only reserves the right to broadcast any created content on its own platforms for the duration of the project.
When will successful applicants be notified?
The result of the adjudication shall be published within fifteen (15) working days after closing date.
All successful applicants shall be notified in writing prior to the results being publicised.
Unsuccessful applicants shall be notified.
How will my application be adjudicated/ scored?
Applications will be adjudicated and awarded by the jury appointed by the MIAF and EU- CRP.
Does it matter how long I’ve been a spoken word artist/musician?
No, the project is aimed at artists who are export-ready.
Will being chosen for the program guarantee me gigs in Europe?
No. Although it is the objective of the project to foster and support collaboration between South African performers and European curators and promoters, the Music In Africa Foundation cannot in its capacity warrant any future outcomes in the form of gigs (paid work) for program participants.
Do I have to be based in Johannesburg?
No. MusicXwords project is aimed at South African musicians and spoken word artists based in any of the 9 provinces. All applicants should be able to cover their own travel to the workshops and performances in Johannesburg.
If I am successful, will I cover my own costs for participation in Europe?
Artists selected to tour Europe shall have their participationcosts in Europe covered by the EU-CRP (travel costs, accommodation costs, fixed per diem).
Does the genre of music/ poetry I perform matter?
No. The MusicXwords is open to all genres of music and spoken word. All music applications must be based on live performances and original music. No backing tracks.
Who can I contact if I want to know about the MusicXwords project?
You can email all your questions and enquiries to violet@musicinafrica.net