THE INSTITUTE FOR CREATIVITY LAUNCHES 120-DAY MUSIC CREATIVE CHALLENGE
The vision for this program is to use design principles to explore ideas and develop an artistic project from conception to delivery. Through support, coaching, mentorship, and a cohort of dynamic musicians, we will walk together in our journey to create inspiring, meaningful, and potentially life-changing work. Further, this is a fully-funded program to demonstrate the transformative power of artistic creation.
Thinking about yourself, your life, and your career as a series of projects is perhaps the healthiest thing you can do as a musician. (Brian Kai Chin)
When does this happen?
120 days from Nov 1, 2021 - Mar. 1, 2022. We are wisely taking Dec 15-Jan 1 off from meeting for rest, reflection, and connecting with others.
Who is this for?
This program is intended for any musician that understands the power of self-empowerment and the role the arts play in making the world a better place.
This pilot program is designed for musicians who are already well into their studies, likely already graduated from college and/or graduate programs, already creating or producing some original work, and looking to move forward with their artistic dreams.
Our Guiding Principles & Values
We believe...
...that creativity is a birthright
...that we are humans first, artists second, and musicians (or painters…) third.
...that intentional and well-executed artistic projects can transform our lives and is the healthiest activity a creative can do.
...that the best way to sell art and build an audience is to make really good art.
...that practice in the arts is a way of living in our world, not a means to an end.
...that art/music/creativity has the power to bring people together, change lives, and therefore change the world.
...that our creative work carries intrinsic and spiritual value to ourselves and to our communities.
Why is this important? And why now?
The pandemic has created a disruption in the music world and the way we present, create, and disseminate music. This has divided musicians into two types, those who are considering quitting, and those who are pivoting into a new direction.
The messaging to musicians is that there is a career track... that you go to school and get a job. While this is true in a handful of areas, for the most part, this leaves us questioning our definition of success. The reality is that in a gig economy, what we do for money is different from the creative and artistic visions we have. Sometimes this lines up, but that is certainly not necessary. Practice is a way of life. Creation by itself is of transcendent value (and from time to time, can also help careers!).
As we reemerge from the pandemic, it will be important to acknowledge that things won't (and should not!) go back to the way they were. We aim to come out of this era stronger, together, focused, and kicking ass.
This is not for everyone...
This program challenge will not focus on the technique of your craft. We will be circling around building additional skills needed, amplifying the talent you have already built, and focusing on creation. If you are seeking help in becoming a better hurdy-gurdy player, we can help you find additional support so you can participate when you are ready.
We will be actively striving to redefine and heal from our own musical beliefs and to strive for a complete mindset change. Training to become a musical robot can be exceptionally damaging, and no matter how proficient, helps no one.
This program will push you beyond your comfort zone. This can be scary, and we all have our own coping methods... for most of us, it is some combination of a scarcity mindset... lack of time... lack of money... lack of... This will require us to find courage.
What does the average week look like?
Each week we will do a 1 1/2 hr training to explore topics of obstacles, skills building, mindset, and productivity. This session will be at the same time every week and recorded.
We will have an optional Q&A / support session each week where you can ask questions, learn from each other, and provide feedback to work or ideas.
We will be divided up into a smaller cohort as well (of 3-4 people) to serve as additional accountability and build a partnership. Ideally, this group will connect weekly, or so.
Regular communication and accountability via our Social Media platforms (Facebook group)
Where are we meeting?
In-person
Online
We will have the same time each week
Project-specific, and if possible, we will create a live in-person opportunity to share work
How do the scholarships work?
Common Tone Arts has procured underwriting to offer eight matching funds from the Gates Foundation this Fall. This pilot program will jump-start the Institute for Creativity and help to demonstrate 'proof of concept'.
The full normal price for this program, and those like it, is $1000/mo. With our underwriting, we can offer this program at a scholarship level of 50% off to a select group of hand-picked participants. Additionally, you can choose one of the following options:
Pay the ½ price tuition
Do something for Common Tone Arts in your skillset to offset this cost
Pay a portion of any profits from your project’s amazing success down the road. (Creative Capital model)
In exchange for this tuition waiver, we are asking that you only participate with a full scholarship if you are a "HELL YEAH!!"