Residency Exchange: Reykjavík – Nantes

Reykjavik Music City, the City of Nantes, Iceland Music, STEF, hafnar.haus, and the Trempo music center in Nantes are offering a residency exchange for musicians from Reykjavík and Nantes.

The project aims to connect the two cities and their music communities, fostering sustainable collaboration through music and creativity.

The residency offers a selected artist the opportunity to create in a fully equipped studio and rehearsal space for 2–3 weeks, with no requirement for a finished product. It is a unique chance to connect with the music scene in Nantes and the wider French industry, both with fellow artists and professionals.

About Trempo

Trempo is a music institution in Nantes dedicated to the practice, creation, production, and performance of new music. Founded in 1990 and located in a seven-story building in the city center, the facility includes 2,300 m2 of workspace, 16 studios, a terrace, and a bar.

Timing & Logistics

The residency for a Reykjavík-based artist in Nantes is scheduled for September 8–24, 2026. The exact dates will be finalized in consultation with the selected applicant.

The project is supported by the French Embassy in Iceland, Alliance Française de Reykjavík, ARDIAN, and STEF.

Requirements:

• You are a musician (composer, performer, or producer).
• You have an established professional background and a clear career path.
• Applications are open to all musical genres.
• You are accustomed to working independently.
• Experience leading workshops or masterclasses is preferred.
• Membership in STEF is a requirement.

Benefits

The selected applicant will receive:

• Paid travel from Iceland to Nantes and back.
• Accommodation.
• Per diem.
• A project grant of €700.
• Rehearsal and studio space at Trempo.
• Artistic support and networking from the Trempo team.

Opportunities during the residency:

• A performance at Trempo.
• Leading a paid workshop at Trempo (theme to be decided with the applicant).

Application Process

Please note that applications must be submitted in English. Requirements include:

• Music samples: Links to your music and/or videos.
• Short CV in English.
• Cover letter: (Max 1 page) Explaining why you are applying and your expectations for the project.
• Application form: Completed for the Nantes residency.

Applications should be sent to tonlistarborgin@reykjavik.is.

Deadline: April 19, 2026.

Notification: May 2026.

For questions, please contact: tonlistarborgin@reykjavik.is

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