Call for Applications
Composer-Librettist Laboratory 2008
General Statement
The heart and soul of Tapestry’s new work creation programme is the Composer-Librettist Laboratory. After ten successive “Lib-Labs”, this programme has been carefully honed for composers and writers to test, exercise and develop their collaborative writing and composing skills in the music theatre/opera art form. For most composers and writers the artistic process is a solitary one. Tapestry provides development, guidance and financial support through the often lengthy, but ultimately rewarding, new work creation process.
The Need
Tapestry considers it to be of vital importance for composers and writers working in the music theatre/opera art form to explore the process of collaboration in a creative, non-competitive environment.
The Program
Initiated in 1995, the Laboratory is an intensive ten day workshop for composers and writers to explore the collaborative process. The Composer-Librettist Laboratory provides the opportunity to work with several partners in a short period of time, thereby developing techniques for effective collaboration. Throughout the program, writers and composers are partnered with one another, each for a two-day cycle. Dramaturgical support is provided for both writers and composers throughout the process. Through exercises in writing short scenes the working relationship between composer and writer is investigated. Each work is performed by a resident ensemble of singers and pianists and constructively discussed by the entire group. The partners then change and the process begins anew. One or more dramaturge, music director and/or composer-librettist team provides guidance and supplementary education in the form of workshops, readings or inter-disciplinary discussions.
Eligibility / Requirements
Professional composers and writers who are collaboration-minded, willing to explore new approaches to music theatre/opera creation and able to constructively critique their own and others’ work. Composers and writers must agree to enter the Lab as equals, with neither discipline taking precedence over the other. All participants accepted into the programme will receive a residency bursary offered by Tapestry that covers program fees of $2,000. Participants selected will be responsible for their own travel and accommodation. Participants must be available from August 18th to 28th (inclusive) on a full-time basis.
Guidelines for Submissions
All applicants please submit:
1. A cover letter that includes your name, address, telephone & fax numbers, e-mail address & Web site
2. A resume or CV outlining your professional experience and relevant academic and professional training.
3. A one-page description stating your interest in participating and why you would benefit from the program. This may be included as part of the cover letter.
4. For applicants who do not yet have a known body of work, a letter of reference from a professional in the field. This may be included in your application or send under separate cover directly to Tapestry.
Composers
In addition to #1 through #4 above, please submit: Two samples of your work, including scores and recordings, at least one sample of work written for the voice.
Writers
In addition to #1 through #4 above, please submit: Two samples of your work including an excerpt from a dramatic work for the stage.
Please limit your submission of samples to a maximum of 20 pages.
Submissions must be postmarked on or before the submissions deadline.
Deadline for Submissions: April 25 2008
(delivered or postmarked)
Notification Date: May 16 2008
Submissions should be directed to the Attention of
Ms. Susan Worthington, Producing Director
By Mail
Tapestry new opera works
55 Mill Street, Bldg # 58
The Cannery,
Studio 316
Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
For More Information Please Contact:
Susan Worthington, Producing Director
416 537- 6066 ext 225
liblab@tapestrynewopera.com
Applications are not accepted by email or fax.