The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad is a partnership between Jazz at Lincoln Center and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.It’s a programs that “is designed to foster cultural exchange with audiences worldwide through performance and educational outreach.”
Aside from jazz, urban/hip hop the cooperative is looking for “American roots music (including blues, bluegrass, Cajun, gospel, zydeco, and country).”
Seems to be a shame that applicants need to be “ensembles comprised of four musician” since it’d be a lot easier for a single performer to sling a guitar over their shoulder and tour the world than coordinating four people to do so.
Musicians must be at least 21 years of age, a U.S. citizen, and hold a valid U.S. passport.
Selected ensembles tour to such regions as Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East for approximately one month. International activities include public concerts, master classes, lectures, demonstrations, workshops, jam sessions, media outreach, and collaborations with local musicians.
The U.S. Department of State funds international travel, hotels, and meals, and awards a modest tour honorarium to each musician.
Complete program information is available at the JALC Web site.