*2025 Call For New Works -


2025 DETROIT JAZZ FESTIVAL 
Call For New Works

As part of this year’s programming, the Detroit Jazz Festival invites artists to bring new perspectives to blending Jazz and other musical styles. Whether classical, electronic, hip-hop, folk, or something entirely new, we seek inspired visions that honor Jazz’s tradition, build on its language, and explore distinctive new sounds. This award is for projects that remain rooted in Jazz but thoughtfully incorporate outside influences—expanding its language without diluting its essence. The winner will receive $5,000 to create new work(s), engage/prepare the ensemble, and perform one 60-minute set at the 2025 Detroit Jazz Festival. 

As this is a commission for new work(s), full ensemble audio recordings are not required. However, if the Artist has ensemble recordings available, there will be an option to upload them.

For the application, we are seeking samples of work from each individual artist involved, showcasing their unique contributions and artistic voice. Additionally, we ask for a description from the Project Leader outlining how they will draw from their own experience and the group’s collective talents to create something innovative, meaningful, and true to the spirit of this commission.

Our goal is to gain insight into each individual’s artistry and understand how these elements will come together to shape an exciting new work.

For other projects, consider applying to our 2025 Open Artist Submission 

Submission guidelines

must include 

- Leader's
     - Bio
     - Sample of work

- list of proposed personnel w/
     - Proposed instrumentation 
     - A brief bio for each performer
     - A sample of each performer's work

- A description of the project, including how the work will incorporate and blend other musical styles using the proposed instrumentation and personal.


The deadline to submit is April 11, 2025.


ALL SUBMISSIONS WILL BE REVIEWED BY THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
ONLY SELECTED ENSEMBLES WILL BE CONTACTED

First Name *
Last Name *
Email *
Cell *
Address Line 1 *
Address Line 2
City *
State/County *
Zip/Postcode *
Website
Bio *
Sample of Work *
(MAX SIZE 500MB)
Sample of Work *
(MAX SIZE 500MB)
You may provide website URLs below if you are unable to upload audio files.
Website link to audio file
Add another (Max 3)
Number of band members *
-+
Band Member: *
First Name
Last Name
Cell number
Member Instrument *
Bio *
Sample of Work *
(MAX SIZE 5000MB)
Add another (Max 20)
Have you previously appeared at the Detroit Jazz Festival? *
Description of proposed project *
Addional Sample
(MAX SIZE 500MB)
Additional Sample
(MAX SIZE 500MB)
By submitting this Application, I agree to be added to the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation mailing list to receive updates and announcements.