Jazz & Sonic Arts 2026 Improvised Music Residency

About the Open Call

"This program is more than just a residency — It’s an invitation to dive deep into your “why,” slow down, rethink your practice. It is also a space for meaningful artistic exploration, collaboration and connection with others who are passionate about sound, music and creative practice in all its forms. It’s an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in your work and engage with fellow artists in a setting that’s as inspiring as it is breathtaking." Piotr Turkiewicz - Program Director. Jazz & Sonic Arts offers immersive, inclusive, and transformative learning opportunities for jazz musicians and sound artists, including working with celebrated mentors, exploring diverse creative methods, building community, embracing innovation, collaborating and performing with peers, researching and developing projects, learning effective recording and production practices, and developing business aspects of being an artist.

What is Offered

Meal Plan (equivalent to $68 credit per day), Accommodation (single bedroom on Banff Centre campus), Studio Space (specialized studios), Showcase Your Work (opportunities to showcase work-in-progress), Group Seminars/Workshops with faculty, Recording Opportunities (limited studio recording possibilities), Paul D. Fleck Library and Archives access, Campus Facilities (Participant Resources, free access to Sally Borden Fitness and Recreation Centre, Box Office Discounts).

Requirements

This program is open to national and international post-secondary students and artists already at an advanced level of accomplishment. Individuals and small groups are welcome. Applicants should have a well-documented record of musical exploration, performance, or creation in Jazz and Sonic Arts. Applicants must be 18+ at the time of the program start date. Domestic and international applications are welcome. Note that Banff Centre programs do not meet the eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa; accepted participants must obtain a Visitor Visa to enter Canada.

How to Apply

Learn more about the steps to Complete Your Application. Step 1: Complete the Online Form. Step 2: Pay your application fee. Step 3: Upload Your Materials: Resume (two-page), Cover Letter (one-page), Resource Request Form (outline studio, equipment, software, facility, or staff support), Portfolio (Performers: up to three audio or video samples, max 10 minutes; Composers: scores of two compositions, with recordings if possible), Financial Assistance (complete the Financial Aid question in SlideRoom). For Group Applications, the lead applicant completes Step 1, pays the $65 fee in Step 2, and completes one SlideRoom application in Step 3. An additional $35 registration fee will be added for each group member upon acceptance.