The Fellowship Programme

The EMC Fellowship Programme offers emerging professionals working in the field of music — such as creators, performers, project managers, producers, educators, administrators, researchers, and others involved in music-related activities — the opportunity to internationalise their careers and to develop professionally. The programme runs for two years, during which up to ten individuals may take part in the European Forum on Music (EFM), gain access to EMC events, and be included in the EMC’s internal membership communication. It is co-funded by the EU's Creative Europe programme.

Fellows are open-minded persons motivated to engage in cultural policy discussions, and committed to the values of musical diversity and the ideals enshrined in the IMC Five Music Rights. They apply for their individual professional development, even if they come from an EMC member or are employed by any other organisation.

BENEFITS
1. Attendance at the EFM in Timișoara, Romania, 9–12 June 2026
The Fellowship begins with a grant that covers all costs (travel, accommodation, and registration fee) related to attendance at the European Forum on Music 2026 in Timișoara. The EFM brings together music-sector professionals from across Europe and beyond to exchange knowledge, discover new initiatives, and connect with peers.
 
2. Access to EMC’s membership benefits
Fellows have access to most EMC members-only benefits for two years. This includes receiving internal membership communication and gaining exclusive access to selected EMC events and activities, e.g. further EFM editions, workshops or online meetings.

3. Networking and professional development
Fellows may use the opportunity to expand their professional network through the EMC. They are invited to take part in EMC events and can contribute to the EMC workplan where relevant.

4. One-to-one Mentoring Programme
Fellows can access individual support through mentoring by senior EMC members with extensive experience in fields relevant to the fellow’s interests. The EMC secretariat helps identify suitable matches regarding expertise and geographic context.

5. Continuous involvement
There is no abrupt end: former Fellows may stay connected to the EMC network through the KiT (Keep in Touch) programme and continue engaging with peers and former board members beyond the Fellowship period.

6. Online onboarding meeting in April
Before the first official on-site event for the Fellows — the European Forum on Music in June — Fellows will be invited to an online onboarding meeting on 16 April, 12.30–14 h CEST, offering an introduction to EMC’s work and a first opportunity to connect with the cohort and the EMC team.

HOW TO APPLY
Please send your application for the Fellowship Programme to Sebastian Bürg, buerg@emc-imc.org with the subject line “Fellowship Programme Application” by 27 January 2026.

Your email should include:

  • a résumé (CV)
  • a short explanation of how you believe the EMC Fellowship Programme can be useful for your own professional development
  • a reference letter from an EMC member or another music organisation familiar with EMC activities

We welcome applicants who have at least two years of professional experience, e.g. after studies or alongside postgraduate studies. The EMC values diversity in all aspects. We therefore encourage interested persons from all backgrounds and abilities to apply.

The selection committee will choose up to ten candidates and invite them to join the two-year programme. Selected applicants will be notified by the end of March 2026.

Note: Canditates who work in salaried positions are encouraged to seek official release from work for EMC-related activities, as participation should ideally be recognised by employers as professional training rather than considered as personal vacation.

Do you want to know more? Meet the EMC Fellows 2024–2026!