American Music Abroad

At-a-Glance

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. Each year, approximately 10 ensembles of American music in different genres are selected to embark on a two to three-week long, multi-country tour, where they engage with international audiences through public concerts, interactive performances with local musicians, lectures and demonstrations, workshops, jam sessions, and media interviews.

American Music Abroad activities often focus on younger and underserved audiences in countries where people have few opportunities to meet American performers and experience their music first-hand. 118 AMA bands have traveled to more than 134 countries around the world since 2012.

Program Length

2 - 3 weeks

Eligibility and Application Overview

Public applications are accepted.
  • Bands are selected for tours through a competitive audition process.
  • Bands must be able to tour internationally for 15 to 20 days during the tour season (based on band availability).
  • Tours will visit 1-3 countries.
  • Bands cannot select or request which countries they are sent to.
  • The program is open to all genres of music.
  • Each band must be composed of 3 to 5 artists.
  • All artists must be U.S. Citizens.
  • All artists must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Artists are not eligible for the program if they have been convicted of a felony or are delinquent on child support payments.
  • Alumni Bands that have participated in the American Music Abroad International Touring Program three or more times in the last five years are not eligible to apply (the virtual AMA programs do not count).
  • Each musician may perform with only one band;
  • Successful applicant ensembles are required to demonstrate artistic integrity, musical ability, knowledge of American cultures and music and a strong commitment to community and education programming;
  • Applicants must be amenable to rigorous traveling and performance conditions, as touring regions and itineraries may be challenging;
  • In addition to concerts and media appearances, selected groups will present educational activities that include, but are not limited to: workshops, classes, and community outreach activities.

Application Information

The application period for American Music abroad is open from November to January.

Visit American Music Abroad's website for more information.

More details on applying and eligibility >>

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