American Music Abroad
Musician Devin Phillips is surrounded by children during a trip to the Republic of the Congo. Photograph courtesy of Eric Gruber.
American Music Abroad artists represent the new generation of musical ambassadors; reaching beyond concert halls to interact with other musicians and citizens around the globe. During 2012 and 2013, the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs will partner with American Voices to send approximately 10 American roots music groups in genres such as urban/hip-hop, gospel, bluegrass, and jazz to more than 40 countries to: conduct public concerts, interactive performances with local musicians, lecture demonstrations, workshops, and jam sessions with diverse audiences.
American Music Abroad activities focus on younger and underserved audiences in countries where people have few opportunities to meet American performers and experience their music first-hand.
2012-2013 American Music Abroad Participants
Audiopharmacy (Hip Hop/Dub, California)
Boston Boys (Soul/Country, Massachusetts)
Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer with Barbara Lamb (Folk/Roots, Maryland)
The Clinton Curtis Band (Rock/Blues, New York)
Della Mae (Bluegrass, Massachusetts)
Keola Beamer & Jeff Peterson, with Moanalani Beamer (Hawaiian Slack Guitar/Hula, Hawaii)
Kyle Dillingham and Horseshoe Road (Heartland Acoustic, Oklahoma)
Mahogany Jones (Hip Hop/Soul, Michigan)
Matuto (Americana, New York)
PROJECT Trio (Jazz/Classical/Hip Hop, New York)
Real Vocal String Quartet (Crossover/Chamber Jazz, California)
Application Information
The application period is now closed. Visit American Music Abroad's website for more information.
Eligibility
- Be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and either hold or be able to obtain a valid U.S. passport;
- Ensembles must be trios, quartets or quintets (3-5 people);
- Traditional American genres we seek include but is not limited to Contemporary Urban , Hip Hop, Rock & Roll, Punk, Heavy Metal, Indie Rock, R&B, Jazz, Blues, Country, Broadway Musical Theater and American roots music genres like Country, Gospel, Soul, Bluegrass, Zydeco, Cajun, Afro-Caribbean, Tejano, Southwestern American Conjunto, Native-American and Folk;
- Each musician may perform with only one band;
- Have not participated in the American Music Abroad program more than 2 times, including prior iterations such as The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad;
- Bands combining or crossing-over genres will be considered;
- Demonstrate artistic integrity, musical ability, educational aptitude, and knowledge of American culture and music;
- Be prepared for, as touring regions and itineraries may be challenging;
- Ability to perform consistently and effectively in difficult touring schedules and rigorous traveling and performance conditions;
- Be prepared to present educational activities that include, but are not limited to: workshops, classes and community outreach activities;
Selection Criteria
- Demonstrated communication skills: ability to communicate with diverse groups with vastly different age ranges, educational backgrounds, language abilities and levels of exposure to American culture and music;
- Creative presentation of genre and education materials;
- Demonstrated commitment to educational and community activities;
- Experience and/or potential to thrive as cultural diplomats;
- Potential for successful completion of passport, visa, immunization and other preparations;
From 2005-2012, in partnership with Jazz at Lincoln Center, ECA's The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad will have sent more than 150 musicians to more than 100 countries.
