Music BC announces ARC Artist Intensive Accelerator Program for new and emerging BC-based recording artists. Apply by May 15, 2022!

Announced on April 11, 2022, made possible with support from Amplify BC, and delivered via Music BC, the ARC Accelerator Program is a new initiative that provides economic, artistic, and performance-focused mentorship and development to promising new and emerging BC-based recording artists. The initiative will be supported by a three-year funding commitment of $600,000 from the B.C. government.

Through a potent mix of one-to-one and collective mentorship with established industry professionals, clinical sessions on branding, marketing, artistic planning, and creative skills development, coupled with live performance opportunities, participants will be positioned for future success. The program spans June – September 2022. Applications open April 11, and close on May 15, 2022. 

ARC includes three components:

• The Clinic is a multi-day training intensive where participants will attend business-focused workshops on revenue streams, branding and building a business plan, followed by assignments for continued learning and progress check-ins with ARC mentors.
• The Retreat is another multi-day intensive comprised of one-on-one and group mentorship sessions with world-class industry leaders, with a focus on all the creative components that go into growing and sustaining an audience and brand, including writing, recording, vocal and live performance training.
• The Show is an opportunity for participants to perform in front of a live audience of fans, local and international industry members.

Eligibility notes include: 

All music genres may apply to participate in ARC; however, popular international music genres will be given preference. Eligibility and adjudication criteria are set by the ARC Program Committee and may be amended from time to time.

Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years of age on or before May 15, 2022 to apply to participate in ARC. In the case of a band, all members must be of age to qualify for the program.

Priority shall be given to Artists who write and perform their own songs. No cover songs shall be accepted in assessing eligibility to the program.

Artists must be willing to travel to attend ARC program components including (but not limited to) The Clinic, The Retreat and The Show. Attendance and participation in The Clinic, The Retreat and The Show is required for all ARC Artists. For Artists consisting of 2 or more permanent members, attendance at The Clinic may be limited to a designated professional lead and one other permanent member due to capacity limitations in this component.

For more information, application guidelines, and additional resources, click here.