CBC and SOCAN Foundation launch Indigenous music residency

CBC and the Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada (SOCAN) Foundation are launching the CBC Indigenous Music Residency, a new songwriting program for six Indigenous musicians that supports their growth and artistry.

Eligible Indigenous artists can submit their songs for consideration here until Aug. 29 at 11:59 PM ET.

Six participants — two First Nations, two Inuit and two Métis artists — will be selected. They will have costs and accommodation covered for four weeks in Toronto, where they will work on two new songs. While completing the residency, they will receive mentorship, access to CBC video and production facilities, and networking opportunities with music industry experts. The program will end with the musicians performing their new works at a live event.

The selected artists will receive:

• Travel for participant.
• Accommodation for duration of the program.
• $2,000 honorarium to cover participation costs (e.g. food, associated living costs, etc.).  
• Canadian Federation of Musicians (CFM) scale rates applicable for creative work.
• Presto card (a public transit pass) to cover intercity travel. 
• Singer-songwriter showcase at songwriters' circle.
• Possible video/documentary coverage to be disseminated on CBC.
• Dedicated producer from CBC to support cohort.
• Educational gatherings curated by SOCAN Foundation.

"CBC continues to prioritize programs and partnerships that support the growth and success of Indigenous storytellers, and launching the Indigenous Music Residency with SOCAN Foundation is an important addition to our commitment," said Tara Mora, senior director, radio, talk and music programming for unscripted content, CBC, in a press release. "By providing access to CBC mentorship and resources through this vital new program, we look forward to opening our doors to more Indigenous artists and helping lift their voices and music to the forefront."

"The SOCAN Foundation is committed to expanding opportunities to empower Indigenous music creators, ensuring they have access to the resources necessary for fostering musical creativity and advancing their careers," said Charlie Wall-Andrews, executive director of the SOCAN Foundation in a press release. "Our partnership with CBC enables the Indigenous Music Residency program to provide these artists with time, space, state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and guidance to support their artistic development."