“Land of the Rising Sun” to host rising music stars

Between February 2 and April 4, 2011, South African producers, instrumentalists, vocalists, and DJs are invited to apply to be part of the Red Bull Music Academy, a life-changing experience for those lucky enough to be selected. Having circumnavigated the globe, with previous editions in Barcelona, Cape Town, Toronto, Sao Paulo, London and Melbourne, the Academy will touch down this year in Tokyo between October and November. With a reputation for being a paradise for vinyl hunters and technology lovers alike, Japan will be home to this year’s event, featuring a range of workshops and studio sessions.

“If you’re serious about your craft, it’s an opportunity not to be missed,” says Black Coffee, a Red Bull Music Academy alumnus and accomplished pioneer of soulful South African house music. “Without a doubt the Red Bull Music Academy was a turning point in my career.”

SA’s Red Bull Studio to offer assistance and advice
Applicants should download and complete the application form available at www.redbullmusicacademy.com, and they will need to put together a music demo. Those looking for advice and assistance, including sending off the final applications at a reasonable cost – are invited to tap into the network of Red Bull Music Academy alumni based in South Africa. They will be available to provide tips and guidance through the Red Bull Studio: www.redbullstudio.co.za.

A jury made up of label heads, music journalists and Academy team members will deliberate over each application, ultimately selecting two groups of 30 to represent a broad spectrum of music styles and levels of experience: from singer-songwriters to DIY synth designers to orchestral composers to digital beat makers.

The Academy will take place over two fortnight-long 'terms' (October 23 - November 4, 2011 and November 13 - November 25, 2011).

Intro sessions across SA
For music makers keen to apply for the Academy in Tokyo and learn more about the experience, a series of introductory Red Bull Music Academy Sessions will take place in March 2011, as part of similar sessions in over 50 countries worldwide. These events will provide info on the Academy as well as the application process, and include workshops with Academy alumni, as well as after-dark performances from South African artists.

Media portal
Journalists and bloggers interested music and video downloads from the Red Bull Music Academy should register on: redbullmusicacademy.com/press/home/