Frequently Asked Questions
Auditions and Selection Process
Who comprises the audition committee?
The selection committee is comprised of a representative from the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, three American Music Abroad Alumni Artists, and one member of the American Voices staff. American Voices assembles panels reflecting the artistic, geographic, and ethnic diversity of the United States.
How many bands will be selected overall?
Approximately 10 bands will be selected for the American Music Abroad tour season.
How and when will groups be notified if selected into the American Music Abroad Program after auditions?
The selected bands will be notified in late April or early May. The group leader of each selected band will be notified by email.
Programming
When will the tours be conducted?
The AMA Virtual tours will typically take place from September through May.
Programs will be determined based on the band’s availability, as well as the U.S. Embassy and Consulate post’s preference of musical genre for the tours they will host. A typical program will connect bands with one to two U.S. Embassies abroad, for 15 to 20 days of paid touring.
How long are the tours?
International tours range from 15 – 20 days (based on each band’s availability) and will visit 1 to 2 countries.
Does anyone help the musicians with the tours?
Bands will have ongoing support from the U.S.-based American Voices head office, U.S. Department of State, and, in particular, from the diplomats and staff of the U.S. Embassies and Consulates sponsoring the program. Each band will be assigned a tour manager from American Voices who will help with logistical issues, scheduling, sound, and lighting, and general problem-solving. The dedicated tour manager will also accompany the band during their travels. They will also be there to advise on social media outreach by the ensembles, including best practices for filming videography, and photography.
Finances
What is the compensation?
There is an honorarium per tour/virtual program day, per musician (including rest days). Most programs will last for approximately 15 to 25 days.
Are there any costs to participate?
There is no cost to participate in the American Music Abroad Program. If your band is selected to participate in a tour all the tour flights, hotels, and transportation is covered by AMA. Additionally, each artist in the band will receive an honorarium per person, per day (including rests days), and the daily U.S. Government Meal and Incidental Expenses (M&IE) Per Diem rate for the cities of the tour (https://aoprals.state.gov/web920/per_diem.asp).
