How do I apply to Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency?

To apply to Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency, open the opportunity page on Artsume and follow the application link to Banff Centre's official listing. Applications for this opportunity are submitted directly to the host organization.

When is the deadline for Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency?

The deadline for Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency is August 13, 2026 (71 days remaining). Please submit your application before this date.

What type of opportunity is Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency?

Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency is an artist residency.

What support is provided for Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency?

Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency provides housing, studio access.

Who can I contact about Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency?

For questions about Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency, you can contact Banff Centre at Admissions@banffcentre.ca or (403) 762-6180.

How do I find art opportunities on Artsume?

Artsume brings together open calls, grants, residencies, exhibitions, and more from across the art world. Browse and filter opportunities on the Explore page, or create a free artist account to track applications and get matched to opportunities that fit your practice.

Is Artsume free for artists?

Yes. Artsume is free for artists with no subscription fees. You can create your CV, build your portfolio, and discover opportunities. Some opportunities may charge an application fee set by the host organization.

Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak: Indigenous Music Residency

Residency

About This Opportunity

Mâwacihitowinihk Nikamowak (Plains Cree for 'they sing at the gathering place,' referring to Sacred Guardian Buffalo Mountain) is a three-week music residency centring on collaboration, refinement, and presentation of work through audio production and live performance. The program invites Indigenous musicians of various genres to develop songs that are nearly completed or finished into their final stages, supported by faculty, peers, and Banff Centre's audio production team. Participants engage in faculty-led workshops, one-on-one sessions, 24hr studio and music hut access, professional recording sessions (non-commercial use), and public performance opportunities. Open to solo artists and duos. Full funding — a 100% scholarship — covers tuition, accommodation, and meals for all Indigenous participants.

Eligibility & Requirements

Geographic Eligibility

International

Disciplines

Music CompositionSongwritingVocal PerformanceRapElectronic Music

Age Requirements

18+ years old

Applicant Type

Individual artists and collectives

Additional Requirements

Resume/CV (2 pages); one-page cover letter explaining interest and goals; project proposal (500 words or 3-minute video) including theme, materials/facilities needed, and timeline; Resource Request Form outlining studio, equipment, software, facility, or staff support needed; portfolio of minimum 3 and maximum 5 examples of completed projects and works in progress (live or self recordings); 2–3 samples of completed songs or works in progress; Financial Aid section completion in SlideRoom for scholarship consideration. Duo applicants: all resumes in one document; lead applicant submits one application form and pays $35 fee; additional $35 registration fee added per member upon acceptance.

Note

Open to Indigenous people from all regions — locally, nationally, and internationally. Must be 18+ at program start date. Open to solo artists and duos. Banff Centre programs do not meet eligibility requirements for a Canadian Student Visa; international participants must obtain a Visitor Visa.

Before you apply, prepare these

Music samples / portfolio
3–5 works
Resume or CV (2 pages max)
Cover letter (1 page)
Project proposal
Up to 500 words
Resource Request Form
Outline all studio, equipment, software, facility, or staff support needed. Indicate if you want support from a house band for recording.
Financial Aid section
Complete in SlideRoom to be considered for the 100% scholarship covering tuition, housing, and meals.

Compensation & Benefits

Overview

100% scholarship covering full program fee ($8,295 CAD), single-bedroom accommodation, and meal plan ($68/day credit). No out-of-pocket program cost for accepted Indigenous participants.

What's Provided

Housing Provided

Single bedroom on the Banff Centre campus for the duration of the program.

Studio Access

24hr access to studios and/or music huts for songwriting and performance preparation. Professional audio recording studio with Banff Centre's audio production team (non-commercial use included; commercial recording subject to availability and additional fees).