RAqS Residency Program
PREPARE > REVIEW > SHOWCASE
LAAT DE NACHTLEVEN | 2025 • 2026
Discover RAqS Residency Program
At RAqS, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of artists and creative talents from the SWANA region. Our Residency Program is designed to provide emerging artists with the tools, guidance, and platforms they need to thrive in today’s dynamic artistic landscape of Amsterdam city.
Our Vision
The RAqS Residency Program empowers young artists to push the boundaries in contemporary electronics and experimental forms. By fostering creative exploration, collaborations, and professional development, the program is dedicated to cultivating a progressive artistic community that celebrates cultural diversity and innovation.
Who Can Apply?
- DJs/DJ producers
- Electronic musicians
- Sound designers
Based in the Netherlands, between 18 and 27 years old.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong interest in South West Asian and/or North African musical influences.
- A commitment to artistic growth, and the ability to collaborate within RAqS community.
What We Offer
A consistent seasonal residency program is taking a place at RAqS during 2025/2026
Residency time frame : 3 months | online and on site
Workshops and Skill-Building: Participants will be paired with professional artists/mentors within the RAqS network. Mentors will provide targeted guidance, focusing on specialised topics such as:
- Techniques and approaches for DJ mixing.
- Music productions: Mixing, mastering, and live set creation.
- Stage performance: Live performance execution and technical coordination.
Feedback and Progress Reviews: Regular feedback sessions will be conducted to assess artistic progress and provide actionable guidance.
Networking: Engage with a diverse network of peers, industry professionals, and established artists.
Showcases: Each residency will culminate in a tangible result such as a live performance at one of RAqS club nights or studio recording sessions.
Portfolio Development: RAqS will help document participants’ works (audio, video, and visual materials) to strengthen their portfolios and visibility.
Milestones will be set at the beginning of each residency to evaluate success.
Themes of Exploration
Our activities are structured around themes, including:
- The integration of microtonal music scales (Arabic maqam, Persian classics, and more) into electronic music.
- The modern interpretations and evolution of tribal dance music within SWANA folk traditions.
- Electronic Tarab Music: Exploring the sensory interaction and ecstatic experience of Tarab through modern and traditional forms.
How to Apply
To join the RAqS Talent Development Program:
- Complete the application form available below.
- Submit your portfolio, including samples of your work and a brief biography.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview with our selection panel.
To join the RAqS Residency Program. Send an email to [email protected] including:
- Your portfolio, samples of your work and a brief biography.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview with our selection panel.
Deadlines
- Open until: 15.March 2025
- Announcement Date: Following your application submission, you will receive a response within 10 working days.
Our Vision
The RAqS Residency Program empowers young artists to push the boundaries in contemporary electronics and experimental forms. By fostering creative exploration, collaborations, and professional development, the program is dedicated to cultivating a progressive artistic community that celebrates cultural diversity and innovation.
Who Can Apply?
- DJs/DJ producers
- Electronic musicians
- Sound designers
Based in the Netherlands, between 18 and 27 years old.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong interest in South West Asian and/or North African musical influences.
- A commitment to artistic growth, and the ability to collaborate within a creative community.
Themes of Exploration
Our activities are structured around themes, including:
- The integration of microtonal music scales (Arabic maqam, Persian classics, and more) into electronic music.
- The modern interpretations and evolution of tribal dance music within SWANA folk traditions.
- Electronic Tarab Music: Exploring the sensory interaction and ecstatic experience of Tarab through modern and traditional forms.
What We Offer
A consistent seasonal residency program is taking a place at RAqS during 2025/2026
Residency time frame : 3 months | online and on site
Workshops and Skill-Building: Participants will be paired with professional artists/mentors within the RAqS network. Mentors will provide targeted guidance, focusing on specialised topics such as:
- Techniques and approaches for DJ mixing.
- Music productions: Mixing, mastering, and live set creation.
- Stage performance: Live performance execution and technical coordination.
Feedback and Progress Reviews: Regular feedback sessions will be conducted to assess artistic progress and provide actionable guidance.
Networking: Engage with a diverse network of peers, industry professionals, and established artists.
Showcases: Each residency will culminate in a tangible result such as a live performance at one of RAqS club nights or studio recording sessions.
Portfolio Development: RAqS will help document participants’ works (audio, video, and visual materials) to strengthen their portfolios and visibility.
Milestones will be set at the beginning of each residency to evaluate success.
How to Apply
To join the RAqS Residency Program:
- Complete the application form available below.
- Submit your portfolio, including samples of your work and a brief biography.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview with our selection panel.
To join the RAqS Residency Program. Send an email to [email protected] including:
- Your portfolio, including samples of your work and a brief biography.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview with our selection panel.
Deadlines
- Open until: 15.March 2025
- Announcement Date: Following your application submission, you will receive a response within 10 working days.
For additional information, please contact us at [email protected]
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
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