Calling all Musicians: Applications are open for Fête de la Musique 2023!

The French Institute of South Africa has officially opened the call for applications for the 2023 Fête de la Musique in Johannesburg until April 15^th

Originally, the Fête de la Musique (or World Music Day) is a popular and free music festival taking place each year in France on the day of the summer solstice, the shortest night of the year in the northern hemisphere. Throughout the country and abroad, jazz, soul, funk, rock, electro, reggae, classical music and many other musical styles are enthusiastically celebrated.

Organised by the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) and produced by Bassline over the last 12 years with the support of TotalEnergies Marketing South Africa and Newtown Junction, the Fête de la Musique has been celebrated with a full day of free family-friendly concerts, which offers a great opportunity and platform for upcoming bands. The Fête de la Musique allows everyone to discover new musical trends from traditional music to rap, hip-hop, techno, jazz and so much more. Many local and international artists have taken part in the event throughout the years and contributed to its success and theyincluding Msaki, Samthing Soweto, Vaudou Game, Nakhane, Blk Jks, Urban Village, BCUC, Ms Party, The Brother Moves On, Zoë Modiga and Brenda Mtambo and many more.

Get a taste of the atmosphere last year, here.

The French Institute of South Africa is calling for musicians, bands, singers and DJs from all music genres to apply to perform in this year’s festival and join in the spirit of the Fête de la Musique which is scheduled for the 24^th of June 2023 in Johannesburg.

Due to the high volume of applications, there is no audition, but there will be a jury of professionals who will listen to the tracks submitted and study the whole application carefully. The jury members for the Fête de la Musique 2023 are: Mamthug (iQawe), Sophie Boulé (French Institute of South Africa), Jérôme Galabert (Safiko Festival, Reunion Island), Violet Maile (Music in Africa), Dominique Soma (Weheartbeat), Brad Holmes (Bassline) and Mustavah Terki (Canada)

In addition, the chosen artists will be invited to a workshop on the 20^th of June where music industry professionals will host dedicated sessions according to the needs of the selected performers. The aim to go beyond just providing a stage, and ensure a sustainable and meaningful experience of knowledge-sharing and networking.

How to apply?

Send your application pack (bio, photos, technical rider, sound clips, videos and press kit), including your application form (download here) via WeTransfer to:
fetedelamusiquejoburg@gmail.com.

Please also include what you would like to learn in the workshop if selected.

Deadline: The first 300 applications sent before the 15th of April 2023 will be considered.

Successful applicants are selected for the originality of their work as well as their musical and stage performance qualities. The aim of this call is for the public to discover new local talents and for the artists to have the opportunity to perform on stage. Therefore, the potential that the candidate holds in regard to stage performance is one of the most important criteria.

Good luck!