Organizer Information
Ex Aequa is a collaborative international initiative promoted by Institut français Italia in partnership with Spring Attitude Festival, Arty Farty, and 90MIL, alongside community partner Equaly. The programme is supported by the French Embassy in Italy and operates within a broader European cultural cooperation framework.
These organizations collectively form a strong network across Italy, France, and Germany, focusing on contemporary music, artistic innovation, and cultural exchange. Their mission includes supporting emerging talent, fostering inclusive creative environments, and addressing structural inequalities within the music industry—particularly gender imbalance.
Title & Description
Ex Aequa 2026 – Empowering Equality in Electronic Music (Training & Mentorship Program)
Ex Aequa – Empowering Equality in Electronic Music 2026 is a free international training and professional development programme designed to support emerging electronic music artists under the age of 35.
The initiative specifically prioritizes women, FLINTA (Female, Lesbian, Bisexual, Non-binary, Trans, and Agender), and underrepresented gender minorities, aiming to reduce the gender gap within the global electronic music scene.
Following a successful first edition, the 2026 programme expands into a trinational format, offering selected participants the opportunity to engage with three major European music ecosystems:
- Rome
- Lyon
- Berlin
The programme combines residency-based training, mentorship, and public presentation opportunities. Participants will take part in workshops, masterclasses, and industry-focused sessions covering music production, artistic identity, communication strategies, and career development.
A key highlight includes mentorship from internationally recognized artists such as Rebeka Warrior, alongside other prominent figures in the electronic music scene.
The programme culminates in live showcases, including participation in Fête de la Musique, providing visibility and real-world performance experience.
Categories
- Music Production
- DJ / Electronic Music
- Sound Art
- Performance
- Interdisciplinary Music Practices
Eligibility
- Open to artists under 35 years old
- Applicants must be based in Italy, France, or Germany
- Must identify as women, FLINTA, or underrepresented gender minorities (priority focus)
- Open to emerging producers and DJs
- Applicants must have released or composed at least one original track
- Must be actively working in the electronic music field
Program Benefits & Awards
- Fully funded participation (no cost to selected artists)
- Access to international mentorship from leading electronic musicians
- Participation in residency sessions across three European cities
- Professional development through:
- Masterclasses
- Workshops
- Career mentoring (booking, communication, positioning)
- Live performance opportunities (including festival showcases)
- Exposure to international music networks and industry professionals
- Inclusion in a cross-border artistic exchange programme
Application Fee
None
Application Requirements
- Personal and professional information
- Proof of age (under 35)
- Portfolio of work (released tracks or compositions)
- Evidence of active engagement in music production or DJing
- Additional materials as requested in the application form
How to Apply?
Online Application
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 5 May 2026
- Programme Start (Rome Residency): Summer 2026
- Further Sessions: Autumn 2026 (Lyon & Berlin)
Location
- Rome, Italy
- Lyon, France
- Berlin, Germany
Additional Details
- The programme includes a 4-day residency in Rome, featuring:
- Studio sessions
- Talks and workshops
- Mentorship meetings
- Participants will perform in a public showcase at Palazzo Farnese
- Additional sessions in Lyon and Berlin expand opportunities for:
- Networking
- International collaboration
- Exposure to different music scenes
- The initiative strongly emphasizes:
- Gender equality in music industries
- Access and inclusion
- Transnational collaboration
Due to the competitive nature of the programme, only a limited number of artists (9 participants) will be selected.