Iceland Music, in collaboration with Initiative Neue Musik Berlin (INM) and international partners, is offering three Icelandic music professionals (composers, performers, artistic directors, or leaders of music ensembles) a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the heart of the Berlin contemporary music scene from October 2–5, 2026.

The trip coincides with the Month of Contemporary Music, which will be held for the tenth time from October 2–31 in Berlin. To celebrate its tenth anniversary, the month kicks off with a special orchestral festival, the Ensemble Festival, from October 2–4.

Interested parties are encouraged to attend a presentation of the project by Signý, which will be held at Iceland Music on Thursday, March 12, at 5:00 PM. A live stream will also be available. It is important that all those interested register here.

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Why Apply?

This is a targeted gateway into the German market for those looking to expand their reach. The program includes a concert schedule, networking events, workshops, and conferences, with the goal of fostering close ties between the Icelandic contemporary music scene and key players in Berlin.

What is Offered:

• Concert Program: A three-day program at the Ensemble Festival in CANK (a former shopping center in Neukölln), featuring Berlin’s leading ensembles.
• Curated access: Visits to recording studios, venues, and workshops that are otherwise closed to the public.
• "Time to Listen" Conference: Participation in discussions regarding international collaboration and the management of independent music groups.
• Personalized Consulting: INM and Iceland Music provide pre-departure guidance and assist in organizing meetings with artistic directors and organizers requested by the participants.
• International Network: A four-day working session with a select group of professionals from across Europe. This facilitates genuine connections that can lead to future collaborations and tours.

Support

Iceland Music provides selected participants with a €1,000 travel grant intended to cover flights, accommodation, and tickets. Participants pay for their travel upfront and receive reimbursement upon presentation of receipts.

Who is it for?

The program is intended for composers, performers, organizers, and artistic directors within the contemporary music sector. The trip is most beneficial for those with clear ideas or projects that require international cooperation—whether it be a world premiere, ensemble collaboration, or networking with European colleagues.

Selection Process

A jury composed of representatives from the partner organizations and INM / Field Notes Berlin will select the participants from the applications.

For further information, please contact Lisa Benjes (lisa.benjes@inm-berlin.de) or Signý Leifsdóttir (signy@icelandmusic.is).
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Apply here

‍Note: Only one individual per institution or music ensemble can receive the grant.

Partners: Art Music Denmark, Centre National de la Musique, Fonds Podiumkunsten Netherlands, Iceland Music (Tónlistarmiðstöð), Kultur:lx, Austrian Music Export, Music Finland, Music Norway, Pro Helvetia.

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