Call for applications: Instrument building and repair training

The initiative aims to train participants in building and repairing African musical instruments while also exploring ways in which they may monetise their work and professionalise the art of instrument making in Africa.

The programme will comprise an intense, seven-day workshop that will be facilitated by top experts in the field, in Johannesburg, South Africa, in February 2025.

Participants will be selected for training and the workshops will culminate in a concert featuring some of the focus instruments as well as an exhibition showcasing a collection of instruments from various parts of the African continent.

Certificates of participation will be given at the end of the workshops, and participants will be able to leave with instruments they have made. More importantly, this training is aimed at enabling instrument makers to train other instrument makers in their respective communities.

The application deadline is 30 September 2024 at 23.59 CAT.

Who can apply?

• Candidates with experience in building instruments. A maximum of 20 beneficiaries will be selected.
• The workshops are open to participants based in South Africa.
• Participants will be required to attend all training sessions scheduled to take place from 22 to 28 February 2025 in Johannesburg.

Support for participants

The MIAF will support the following costs for all selected participants:

• Accommodation for the duration of the workshops.
• Meals for the duration of the workshops.

Note: Participants outside Gauteng must be prepared to cover travel costs to and from their locations. 

How to apply?

• Read the call for application carefully
• Complete the online application form. No other format of application will be considered.
• It is imperative that you attach your CV and add a short motivation (why is it important for you to be trained, and how this will benefit you and your community).
• Proof of experience or knowledge in instrument building (formal or informal) is advantageous, and pictures are required.

Complete the online application form here. 

To be considered, send your application on or before 30 September 2024.

Selection process

• Eligible applications will be reviewed by a selection committee.
• Successful applicants will be notified by November 2024.
• Unsuccessful applicants will not be notified.
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Late applications will not be considered.

The Music In Africa Instrument Building and Repair project is funded by the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) with additional support from Afrikayna through the VITA - Instrumenthèque d'Afrique project and Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM), Siemens Stiftung Goethe Institut, University Of Johannesburg, Constitution Hill’s Creative Uprising Hub and Ukhozi FM.