Organizer Information
ECHOES (European Concert Halls Offering Eco-Solutions) is a transnational network dedicated to marrying sonic creation with environmental responsibility. Funded under the Creative Europe framework, the initiative unites venues, cultural institutions, and creators across the continent to champion soundscape ecology, sustainable touring, and climate awareness through innovative acoustic practices.
Title & Description
Eco-Soundscapes – International Artist Selection.
This project brings together five selected creators to engage in an intensive, collaborative co-creation process. The cohort will work collectively to compose and produce the Eco-Soundscapes Album, exploring the intricate relationships between sound, acoustic identity, and environmental changes. The initiative bridges studio production with outdoor research, utilizing field recordings as a primary artistic and conceptual anchor.
The Residency & Tour Structure:
- Phase 1 (Pre-Residency): Selected artists submit an initial working artistic sketch based on their proposal.
- Phase 2 (Summer 2026 Residency): A collaborative residency in Romania to record, rehearse, and finalize the collective album layout.
- Phase 3 (2027 Tour): An international performance tour taking the co-produced material to partner countries, including Greece and Norway.
Categories
Sound Art & Field Recordings.
Eligibility
- Career Stage: Open to emerging and mid-career artists.
- Geographic Scope: Applicants must reside in a Creative Europe participating country.
- Artistic Alignment: Experience or a demonstrable interest in field recording practices, sonic ecology, and sustainable creation.
- Commitment: Must fully participate in the development phases, summer residency, and 2027 international tour.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Artist Fee: €1,000 participation stipend for each of the 5 selected artists.
- Expense Coverage: All travel, accommodation, and recording expenses for the residency and tour are fully covered.
- Co-Production & Distribution: Professional international distribution of the Eco-Soundscapes Album under clear, structured authorship agreements.
- Professional Networking: Integration into a high-profile transnational peer network of eco-acoustic practitioners.
Fees
- Application Fee: None (Free to enter).
Application Requirements
All materials must be submitted digitally via the ECHOES platform and include:
- Artist Biography: Maximum 1 page.
- Portfolio: Audio and/or video links showcasing past work in sonic arts or composition.
- Motivation & Concept Statement: An integrated document detailing your interest in soundscape ecology, your approach to transnational co-creation, a preliminary concept for your composition, and your intended environmental sound materials.
- Unreleased Musical Work: One piece representative of your current artistic style, to be used strictly for evaluation purposes (must not be commercially released).
How to Apply?
Access the online application form and upload your materials directly on the ECHOES platform. Apply to the ECHOES Open Call.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: Late May / Early June 2026 (Please consult the application platform immediately for the specific closing hour).
- Residency Period: Summer 2026 (Romania).
- Tour Window: 2027.
Location
Romania (Residency Base) / International (Greece, Norway, and other touring locations).
Additional Details
Field recordings are central to the ECHOES framework. Sounds can range from rural, wildlife, and natural textures to urban habitats and modern human friction within a landscape. Artists are expected to use ethical recording practices that mirror the strict environmental and resource-saving policies of the network.