A new generation of curators learning from more experienced EJN members.
Are you an emerging music programmer looking to grow your skills? Or an experienced professional eager to guide the next generation of curators? The EJN Mentoring Scheme for Programmers connects early-career programmers with more seasoned experts to develop essential skills for programming venues & festivals.
About the Scheme
Running over two editions (2025–2028), EJN will match two mentors and two mentees per edition, to foster international knowledge exchange and career development. We are now launching the calls for the first edition of the scheme.
For Mentees (under 35, associated with & apply through an active* EJN member):
- Gain hands-on experience in booking, artist selection, and event programming;
- Develop skills in commissioning new projects and curating diverse lineups;
- Learn best practices in contract negotiation, audience engagement, and programming strategy;
- Priority will be given to female and non-binary applicants, and to other under-represented groups;
- One in-person field visit (up to 5 days) with a mentor;
- Three+ online mentoring sessions;
- A final in-person meeting at the European Jazz Conference 2026;
- Travel & accommodation support for the two in-person visits.
For Mentors (from active* EJN members and EJN Honorary members):
- Share your expertise in festival & venue programming;
- Support a young programmer’s professional growth;
- Organize online and in-person meetings with your mentee;
- Prepare the educational programme outlining goals, key learning areas, and a schedule for the mentorship period in consultation with the mentee;
- Receive a €2.000 fee for your participation;
- Help shape the future of jazz & creative music programming in Europe.
How to Apply
- As a Mentee: https://forms.gle/WnBbQfXgdika7EnB6
- As a Mentor: https://forms.gle/aLbLip1Yi6PX8rJp6
Deadline: Tuesday, 15 April 2025
After the application deadline, the EJN mentorship committee will review all submissions and carefully match each selected mentee with a mentor based on expertise, needs, and expectations. The mentors and mentees must be from different countries, to encourage international collaboration.
For full details and eligibility, please download the guidelines of the call at this link (.pdf file)
(*) EJN Bylaw: Article 5.1- Active members are members that, after admittance, are up to date with the annual membership fee
