Soundbox Fellowship Program
An intensive residency for emerging and professional composers and performers combining rigorous mentorship, public performance, recording sessions, networking and group discussions about a variety of subjects from pedagogy to philosophy to business. A place to work, develop new music, and to refine your artistic mission. This unique program heavily emphasises intra-generational networking.
SFP for Composers takes place in both Sarasota, FL (United States) and Qingpu, Shanghai (China).
SFP for Performers launches with a pilot summer music festival and camp with academy programs in Qingpu, Shanghai (China). Future programs in the United States should be expected in the coming years.
— PROGRAM IDEALS
Supporting and cultivating musical voices today goes beyond studying and developing great technique. Artist residencies through the Soundbox Fellowship Program create the conditions for thoughtful approaches and conversations about music’s personal meanings in the creation of new music and performances.
— TRACK I
For Composers
SFP for Composers is a workshop-centred residency that focuses on the creation of a new work (typically under 10 minutes) for an assigned solo instrument or chamber ensemble and/or repeat performances of pre-existing works. As part of the curriculum, fellows receive mentorship from acclaimed faculty and resident artists, intensive workshops during the residency, and a high-quality video recording. Beginning in 2026, certain works will be nominated and awarded for further opportunities including repeat programming and performances, radio broadcasts and interviews as co-presented with Soundbox’s partnering organisations.
The curriculum—processes including including composing the new work, lessons, and score—runs on a 3-month timeline that culminates in an approximately week-long artist residency. At certain program iterations, there will be an option for composers to submit pre-existing musical works suitable for the instrumentation as available given the musicians in residence.
Reconnect with your body and mind as you escape the noise of everyday life.
Day OneArrive & Meet
As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
Day TwoSet Intentions & Reflect
Together, we pause to consider our goals, hopes, and direction. This is about aligning with ourselves and with the journey ahead. This is a chance to reconnect with what brought you here—your questions, your hopes, your turning points—and consider how they’ve shifted or deepened.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
Day ThreeLook Forward & Wrap Up
We explore the possibilities beyond this moment, making space for growth, action, and forward momentum. As we end our time together, we honor the experience, the growth, and the connections made along the way.
Check-In9:00 – 9:30am
Group Activity11:00am
Lunch Break12:30pm
Creative Workshop2:00pm
Dinner6:30pm
How It Works-
Browse our upcoming events to find the one that feels right for you. We host events year-round in all different locations and climates.
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Sign up and pay all required fees to reserve your spot. If plans change, you can cancel up to 14 days before the retreat start to receive a 50% refund.
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After booking, we'll send you a Welcome Packet with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.
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We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from the event as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.
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Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.