International Commission Information Pack

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The basics● We’re looking for two artists (one from Northern England and one from outside of

England) to collaborate and write new music that explores the impact of the pandemic

on our creativity and wellbeing

● Open to women and people from other gender minorities as part of Brighter Sound’s

gender equality programme Both Sides Now

● You’ll each receive a fee of £2000 and mentoring from award-winning artist Ray BLK,

known for her groundbreaking, no-holds barred lyrics and willingness to address

difficult topics, both on and off the mic

● We want to hear from musicians, songwriters and producers, of any genre, who have a

track record of producing and performing music and are interested in working with a

new collaborator to gain new perspectives

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What’s involved● 3 months of online collaboration to create new

music in response to the creative brief (page 5)

● Three mentoring sessions with Ray BLK to

support your creative process

● A fee of £2,000 per artist

● Support to present the work in the way you decide

- we’re open to socially distant live performances,

a streamed gig, or even a music video

● 1:1 health consultation with British Association for

Performing Arts Medicine (BAPAM) professionals,

covering all aspects of a musician’s health,

including mental health and wellbeing 3

Known for her no–holds barred lyrics and straight talking, whether it’s on or off the mic, Ray BLK

(real name Rita Ekwere) is going to speak her mind. “I always have to get everything off my

chest,” says the singer–songwriter. “As an artist and somebody who’s been blessed with a

platform, I feel like it is part of my responsibility.”

About Ray BLK

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Born in Nigeria, raised in Catford, Ray BLK’s music is heavily influenced

by her upbringing. “I grew up with Grime music and clash culture in the

playground,” she says. “As much as I don't make Grime music, I like

hard hitting beats that you can sing over.” Aside from the apt

characterisation of her hometown on songs like the 2016 breakout hit

‘My Hood’ featuring Stormzy, South London has shaped her sound,

which sees her marrying the candour and lyricism of a rapper with

honeyed R&B vocals. Find out more: www.rayblk.co.uk

The creative briefThis commission is an opportunity to

creatively and collaboratively explore Brighter

Sound’s current season theme ‘Let’s

Reconnect’.

Between Jan - Mar 2021, we’re asking you to

work together to create 4-6 tracks (or about

20-30 mins of music) using Ray BLK’s words

as a starting point (see next page)

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“The pandemic has affected so many of us in so many ways, but one of the biggest

impacts has been on our mental health. Never have we had this much time to think, and

reflect and process what we’re feeling inside. As an artist who is so used to being busy

performing, travelling and being active, it’s been quite a shock. It has made me question

myself so much, question my purpose, my talent, and my worth, particularly as someone

who lives alone. I’ve found this time very isolating, which only exacerbates my low days.

Online discussions and statistics in the news have shown that more than ever, people are

struggling with their mental health, and those who have mental health conditions are at

serious risk during this time. As artists we should be reflecting the times. I’m interested in

opening up honest conversations about the thoughts and feelings in our head, how we

manage them and what keeps us going in testing times.”

– Ray BLK

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We recognise that this is a very personal and pertinent topic, with the

current climate bringing uncertainty to many independent musicians.

There is no expectation for individuals to share personal experiences

within their applications, and we will treat each one with sensitivity

and respect.

Further information and support for musicians can be found on Help

Musicians UK’s Music Minds Matter.

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Who can apply

Musicians and artists of any background,

discipline or genre aged 18+ (no upper

age limit!) who have a strong track record

of writing, producing and performing, and

have a growing online presence.

We’re passionate about addressing the

gender gap within music, and

strengthening the North of England’s

international connections.

For this reason this opportunity is open to:

● Women and people from other gender

minorities

We use an inclusive definition of the words

‘women’ and ‘female’, welcoming

participants who may identify as

non-binary, gender non-conforming,

cis-gendered, or trans

● People from or based in Northern England

(the North East, North West and Yorkshire

regions) AND people outside of England8

How to applyPlease complete an online form* by Wed 13 Jan 2021, midday. You’ll be asked some personal details along

with the following questions:

1. Tell us a bit about you, your music and your career to date

2. Why are you interested in taking part in this commission, and what do you hope to gain?

3. What are your initial thoughts around the creative brief? You can also include any ideas you have on

how you’d like to present your music (e.g. live stream, video)

If you’d prefer to answer these questions in video format (max. 3 mins per question), you can do so here.

You’ll be asked a few questions, including personal details, and we’ll then give you instructions on how to

send us your video submission.

*If you have any specific access needs relating to the application process or the work itself, please let us know. Contact us at info@brightersound.com or 0161 546 5334. 9

Find out more and contact us

For an up-to-date list of FAQs please click here.

If you have any questions that aren’t answered in the FAQs please email our Both

Sides Now Programme Manager Lucy at LucyS@brightersound.com. Alternatively you

can give us a call on 0161 546 5334.

Our offices will be closed for the Christmas break from Fri 18 Dec – Mon 11 Jan 2021.

If you have any questions during this time please send us an email, and we’ll be back

in touch when we reopen.

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About Brighter SoundBrighter Sound is a creative music charity based in

Manchester, UK. We develop the music creators, leaders

and industry professionals of the future, with a particular

focus on supporting those who are historically and currently

underrepresented.

Our creative projects, residencies, training and events help

people with everything from artistic and career

development, to building communities and personal

confidence.

Find out more:

www.brightersound.com

@BrighterSound on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram11

About Library Live

Library Live is Manchester Central Library’s cultural programme, where unexpected, sociable

and stimulating things happen. From film nights, gigs and live performances to author

readings, talks and creative courses, Library Live features a real assortment of events,

blending the traditional with the unconventional. In the iconic setting of Manchester Central

Library, the inspiring architecture and ambience, help create a different kind of cultural

experience, which is unique to Library Live. With big open doors, lots of free events and many

different spaces to discover and explore, Library Live is for everyone.

Find out more:

www.librarylive.co.uk

@librarylivemcr on Facebook and Twitter

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This is a co-commission between Brighter Sound and Library Live, Manchester as part of Brighter

Sound’s gender equality programme Both Sides Now.

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