Next Level, an initiative of the U.S. Department of State, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Meridian International Center, is seeking American Hip-Hop artist-educators to participate in an international exchange program. In collaboration with the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and U.S. Embassies abroad, Next Level partners with youth in underserved communities through workshops, jam sessions and public performances.
In 2017-2018, Next Level will take teams of Hip-Hop artists to five countries to promote musical and cultural exchange, entrepreneurship and conflict resolution. Each team will spend 2 - 3 weeks teaching and performing in the host countries. Participants receive per diem and an honorarium; travel and lodging costs are covered through the program.
Applicants must be:
• Outstanding performers in one or more of the following: MCing, beatmaking, DJing, Hip-Hop dance, graffiti art or beatboxing
• Experienced Hip-Hop teachers
• Able to commit to traveling abroad for 2 - 3 weeks in one or more countries, as well as a brief Washington, DC, orientation in July/August 2017 (date TBA)
• U.S. citizens at least 21 years of age
• In possession of or able to obtain a U.S. passport (green cards are not sufficient to participate)
Applicants should provide the following:
• A 1 - 3 page cover letter explaining your suitability for the position, relevant experience and teaching philosophy, as well as an explanation of how you would use your art to help promote peace and cultural exchange
• A two-page résumé
• 3 - 5 references with contact information (no recommendations should be sent at this time)
• Links to 2 - 3 creative work samples (each five minutes or less). High-quality videos of live performances preferred; audio-only recordings are acceptable, but at least one sample should be video.
Submission Information
Completed applications and supporting materials are due by Jan. 15, 2017, at 11:59 p.m. EST. Entrants can apply via the Next Level website at nextlevel-usa.org/apply.
If accepted, applicants can expect to be notified by March 2017. Residencies will take place between Summer 2017 and Spring 2018.
Please note: Group applications will not be considered. Next Level alumni and those who participated in the last touring season of sibling programs (American Music Abroad, DanceMotion USA) are not eligible to apply.
Selection criteria:
Artistic excellence and experience
Teaching ability and experience
Communication skills
Potential to use music, dance, or art to promote peace and cultural exchange
Potential to thrive as cultural diplomats
For more information, visit nextlevel-usa.org.
