Legendary musician Bob Dylan is lending a helping hand to the next generation of songwriters through a collaboration between The Bob Dylan Center and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG). The result? The Bob Dylan Center Songwriter Fellowship, a remarkable initiative aimed at fostering and guiding emerging songwriting talents.
The Fellowship program is designed to provide mentorship and development opportunities to up-and-coming songwriters. Annually, two fortunate recipients will be chosen for this prestigious award. The package includes a generous $40,000 project stipend, chances for public engagement and presentations, dedicated access to the invaluable Bob Dylan Archive at BDC, roundtrip travel to Tulsa plus accommodation, mentoring from UMPG’s accomplished songwriters and executives, and recording time at the historic The Church Studio in Tulsa.
The Fellowship winners will be handpicked by a panel comprising accomplished artists like French singer-songwriter Juliette Armanet, American singer-songwriters Patty Griffin and John Mellencamp, Mexican singer-songwriter Carla Morrison, and American rapper Nas. The submissions will also be reviewed by experts from BDC and UMPG.
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Aspiring songwriters interested in this incredible opportunity can submit their applications for the 2024 Fellowship until October 18th. The application fee is remarkably affordable at just $5. The inaugural Fellowship period is scheduled to span from May 2024 to April 2025.
UMP Chief Operating Officer Marc Cimino expressed his excitement about the project, highlighting the unparalleled chance it offers to connect emerging talents with the legacy of one of the greatest songwriters in history. He emphasized the enriching experience of delving into the Bob Dylan Center’s archives and the creative inspiration it can provide. Cimino, along with the BDC team and the panel of esteemed artists, is eager to nurture a fresh generation of songwriters within this unique environment.
In a music landscape constantly evolving, the Bob Dylan Center Songwriter Fellowship stands as a beacon of support and mentorship, ensuring that the flame of creative songwriting continues to burn brightly for years to come.