Sandwell Creates What happens when an opera company asks people what work they’d like to create, then they embark on a journey together to make it happen? That’s what we’ll be finding out in Sandwell over the next two years. Sandwell Sounds Open Call Can you tell a story through music? Are you aged 16-26 and based in Sandwell? If so, we want to hear from you! You could receive £750 to create a new piece of music that tells a story. The piece needs to feature a vocalist and someone playing a musical instrument. It should be around 5 minutes long. Any style, any genre. Three ideas will be selected to be made into a performance, video or audio recording and shared publically. You will receive support and coaching from industry professionals to make your vision a reality. You could be the writer, singer, composer, producer or instrumentalist. You can apply as an individual, a partnership, or a group. Ideas do not need to be fully formed, but the more you can help us imagine your idea, the better! TIMELINE Weds 13 March 2024 – Applications open. Sun 28 April 2024 – Applications close. Video calls arranged with shortlisted candidates to get more information. 7 May 2024 – Successful candidates announced. May – Autumn 2024 – Contracts negotiated. 2-3 rehearsals per piece. Recording or live pop-up performance in Sandwell. *** HOW TO APPLY We invite you to complete an online expression of interest form providing the following information: (A) A short letter (max. 1 side A4) or video (max. 3 mins) to explain your idea. Tell us what story you’ll tell, what will be sung, what instruments will be played, and any other thoughts you have about the style or presentation of the piece. (B) A biography, video or CV to briefly introduce yourself. This should explain your background as a creative, your interests and any experience. (C) An example of your previous work (eg. links to a website, video or audio file) When you have these things, you can submit an application using the google form below. Here, we’ll also ask for your contact details, basic information, and any access requirements. If you have any questions or need any support with the application process, please drop us an email [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 07739 952330 The deadline for applications is Sunday 14 April at 10:00pm. TO APPLY: CLICK HERE Sandwell On Air - in collaboration with Radio Stall Public Dreaming This spring, BOC is teaming up with Radio Stall Public Dreaming to create a pop-up radio station in West Bromwich Indoor Markets, bringing artistic interventions, performances, workshops and music to the markets and Kings Square shopping centre. Drop in for a chat or to make your song request, or LISTEN TO THE LIVE SHOWS HERE: https://radiostall.online/ Open & Broadcasting 21st, 23rd, 26th, 28th, 30th March & 4th, 5th, 6th April 2024. Public Performances Thursday 21 March, 1.15pm - Launch performance with Gabriella Liandu Saturday 30 March, time TBC - Easter performance, TBC Saturday 6 April, 12.15 - Closing performance with Sam Oxborough Special guests include: Poet Rupinder Kaur, Artist Vicky Roden, Street artist and performer Neoliberalizard *** Public workshop Saturday 6 April, 11am - Singing with Sam Oxborough Youth workshops (ages 16-26) In partnership with Powered By Can & G.A.P Entertainment Studios Saturday 23 March, 12.30pm- 2.30pm - Music Production with DJ Moyma at G.A.P Entertainment Studios, 153 High St, West Bromwich B70 7QX Thursday 28 March, 12.30pm- 2.30pm - Song Writing with Czafari at G.A.P Entertainment Studios Thursday 4 April, 11.30am- 1.00pm - Voice and Movement workshop with Nyasha and Sam at G.A.P Entertainment Studios More about us Birmingham Opera Company makes some of the best opera in the world. We reflect the city that we work in, with our audiences, artists and the stories that we tell. We work at multiple scales. Each year, we deliver over 100 events all over the city with diverse participants, artists and audiences. With no fixed venue, we perform in aircraft hangars, power stations, nightclubs, shopping centres, hospitals… And each year, hundreds of Brummies volunteer to sing, act or dance alongside some of the most exciting established and emerging artists in the world. Find out more about the Company at http://www.birminghamopera.org.uk/. Do you live in Sandwell? Take part in or lead any groups in Sandwell? We’d love to be in touch! To find out more, contact Chloë Lund on [email protected] Manage Cookie Preferences