CALL FAQs
When is the MATA Call for Submissions open?
Please check "Upcoming Calls" to see the most -up-to-date submission deadlines.
Is there an age limit?
There is no age limit for the MATA Festival and MATA Presents calls for submissions. MATA Jr. is for pre-college age composers who have not yet graduated high school at the time of submission.
Can I send you my music at other times of the year?
Due to the high volume of music we receive, we can only review materials in the context of our Call for Submissions.
How does MATA curate its programs?
All submissions are divided among a panel of composers, sound artists, and performers of diverse stylistic backgrounds. Panelists select a fixed number of submissions from their batch in preparation for the semi-finalist meeting. Then all of the panelists meet to discuss their selections. MATA’s Artist-In-Residence uses this information to curate the Festival.
What type/genre of music can I submit?
MATA strives to widen the scope of new music and accepts all stylistic genres. We recommend you submit your best work.
Can I submit a work that I perform myself?
Yes.
I wasn't selected last year, can I apply again?
Our panel changes each year. We encourage all applicants to apply again!
Can I submit a work without a recording?
Yes, but we highly recommend that you include some form of audio realization for each piece submitted. If there is no audio recording, please note that in your answer on the application.
My work has visual elements, may I submit a link to YouTube or Vimeo?
Yes.
Scores are not pertinent to my work. What should I do?
Please include a single page PDF in its place describing the work and how the sounds are produced.
How many artists will be selected?
Generally MATA selects 20-30 artists for the Festival, 6 MATA Jr. fellows, and 4-6 projects for MATA Presents.
Who are the performers?
Each Festival and MATA Jr. has an Ensemble-In-Residence. Other performers are selected who best represent the music programmed.
I am not a US citizen, can I apply?
Yes.
I do not live in the US, can I apply?
Yes, MATA accepts applications from all over the world.
How much does it cost to apply?
All calls for submissions are free.
Can I receive travel funding to attend performances?
MATA does not provide travel funding to attend performances, with the exception of some MATA commissioned composers attending their World Premiere. We are happy to provide proof of programming and letters of support if you would like to apply for travel funding from an outside institution. We can, on limited occassions, provide a free homestay. All events are free and accessible via livestream.
When will applicants be notified?
The applicant notification timeline is posted on each call for submissions webpage.