Who Should Apply to the Lab?

The Blackbird Creative Lab is seeking composers and chamber ensembles to join us for our second immersion at the Yerkes Observatory.

Applications will be evaluated based on: 

  • Openness to collaboration, risk-taking, experimentation

  • Artistic dedication and voice 

  • Insatiable curiosity and vision    

  • Capacity to communicate effectively, with a focus on clarity

  • Technical prowess

We are seeking ensembles with the following qualifications:

  • Ensemble is between 2-8 players (note, if you exceed 8 players but are still and unconducted chamber group, please reach out before applying)

  • Ensemble has been operational for a minimum of one year 

  • Ensemble has a 3-5 year strategic plan

  • All members of the ensemble will be 21+ years old before May 28th, 2023. 

Note: All members of the Lab must be 21+ years of age by May 28th, 2023

Building upon the expertise of Eighth Blackbird, the Lab centers on contemporary classical music, and seeks composers, performers, and ensembles with experience in this practice. However, one of the Lab’s aspirations is to expand the range of artistic disciplines included, and conversations to this end are welcomed. Artists from non-musical disciplines are encouraged to contact us to explore whether they might be a fit for the program. The Lab integrates other disciplines through guest artists, who will work with Lab artists in their respective discipline.

If you feel connected to the mission of the Lab and you are considering applying but are unsure how the Lab may align with your artistic discipline, please contact Lab Director, Garrett Obrycki at garrett.obrycki@eighthblackbird.org