Grants for the arts music recordings and labels This information sheet is for prospective applicants to the Grants for the arts programme, who will be applying from 1 July 2013. Please also read our How to apply guidance before you submit your application. Download it from our website or contact us for a copy (enquiries@artscouncil.org.uk, 0845 300 6200). This information sheet complements the How to apply guidance, but does not replace it. Contents Introduction 2 1 Recordings 3 2 Labels 5 3 Further information 6 3 Contact us 7 1
Introduction The processes involved in digitally capturing, distributing and consuming music are continually changing, as are the business models used to exploit this music. The cost of equipment to produce a quality recording, once prohibitively expensive, is now within reach of individual artists, often available for free. Distribution of recorded media has also been revolutionised in recent years. Where this used to be controlled by large corporations, the internet now empowers even individual artists to develop their profile, connect with audiences and distribute their work across the world at little cost, and instantly. There are now new opportunities for large organisations, independent record labels, artists and collectives alike. Arts Council England recognises the importance of digital technology and that the arts sector will need support in exploiting the potential of this technology in what is a rapidly changing environment. Over the coming years we will be developing opportunities for artists and arts organisations to build skills and capacity in digital technology and you should check our website for grants, knowledge sharing, networking events and other resources that will be made available on an ongoing basis. This information sheet is specifically concerned with giving advice to individuals and organisations intending to apply to our Grants for the arts scheme for music based activities related to: Making and distributing recordings Record label development. It is beyond the scope of this information sheet to explore the full range of activities that might be applied for, instead what we have sought to do is highlight examples of the most common areas of activity applied for, as well as the reasons as to whether or not they might be suitable for Grants for the arts funding. Our engagement with supporting recorded media for music is aiming to reflect the support artists and organisations tell us they need, in the context of lottery regulations and the Arts Council s priorities. 2
1 Recordings Grants for the arts can support costs associated with producing and distributing recordings. We are aware of the value of recording work and, when artists are unable to make provision for this themselves, there are circumstances where support can be given. Grants for the arts could potentially support: 1. Part of the artwork Where a recording is required as an integral part of the performance of a work (e.g. sound installation, audio visual performance, etc.). In this instance you would need to tell us about the wider activity within which the recording work would sit, and you might be applying for funds to support that wider activity. We might also support the use of film here, however you should be aware that Grants for the arts only supports the use of film in the context of creating art, so for example promotional films and video would not be eligible. You should read our information sheet Artists film and the moving image for more information. 2. Where an artist can evidence a strong artistic track record and would clearly benefit from producing a recording in terms of artistic development An example here would be developing new original work that challenges your current practice or collaborating with other artists/musicians to experiment with new ideas. You need to evidence that the activity you would be applying for is appropriate to your stage of development and profile. Critically, you need to show what will happen to the recording. We need to have confidence that you understand who your target audience/market for the recording is, and have a clear understanding of what they will gain from the recording and how you will reach them. Are there any innovative ways you can show or distribute your work? Simply stating that you will make a recording and put it on your website as a download or will make it available at a launch will be unlikely to result in success. 3. Where recordings are being produced to promote or support a wider activity. 3
For example by increasing income for the activity, or as part of a targeted marketing campaign or audience development initiative, or for use in the evaluation of an activity. If a recording is being produced as merchandise to support the costs of a wider activity (e.g. a tour) expected income from the sales should be shown in the budget section of the application form, under earned income. You will also need to align the need for the recording with our Grants for the arts criteria for public engagement If a recording is being produced primarily to promote an artist within a wider activity, please be aware that you will need to provide evidence of a strong artistic track record appropriate to the emphasis being placed on the recording. Also, remember that one of our application criteria is public engagement; you need to show how the recording will result in public benefit (for example for audiences). Our general guidance on How to apply to Grants for the arts explains how you can address this criteria in more detail. 4. Education and training. We would consider supporting recording work where the intention is for it to be used for training or education purposes, however applicants should be aware that such activity would need to be innovative and of high value to the target market. You should refer to our general guidance notes on eligibility when embarking on a training or education activity as there are some circumstances where we will not support this kind of work. For example we would not provide a grant for an activity that includes elements that would replace statutory provision, or is primarily related to supporting a student s coursework. 5. Purchase of software or home-recording equipment. Please note that applications for these kinds of asset purchases are unlikely to be successful unless they form a part of a wider activity. Please refer to our guidance sheet Musical instruments and second-hand equipment for further information. http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/information-sheet/musical-instruments-and-secondhand-equipment-grants-for-the-arts/ 4
2 Labels There are circumstances under which grants for the arts might support activities concerned directly with the creation and development of recording labels. We can also fund existing labels to undertake artistic activities or organisational development. Grants for the arts could potentially support: 1. a collective or partnership approach that would demonstrate a clear innovation from the status quo 2. where a gap in provision can be identified and strong demand shown. 3. where a truly new model for delivery has been identified that would benefit artists producing original and high quality work 4. a pilot activity to test new ideas 5. using digital technologies to reach and engage new audiences, enhance networks and increase participation 6. research and development 7. organisational development Grants for the arts would not be able to support: 1. General or ongoing costs. Grants for the arts supports specific time-limited activities. Applications to support general ongoing activities will be ineligible. If, for example, your proposal is a pilot to test for activity that would be expected to continue beyond the term of your grant, you should show how this activity would be sustainable without continued support from Grants for the arts in your application. 2. Activity that results directly in profits being made from the activity being applied for. For further information on this you should refer to our Grants for the arts How to apply booklet which can be found here http://www.artscouncil.org.uk/funding/apply-for-funding/grants-for-thearts/guidance-and-information-sheets/ 3. or contact us if you have specific questions on what constitutes a profit within a proposal. 5
3 Further information Musicians Union National Office 60-62 Clapham Road London SW9 0JJ Phone: 0207 582 5566 Email: info@themu.org Website: http://www.musiciansunion.org.uk BPI (British Recorded Music Industry) Riverside Building County Hall Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7JA Phone: +44 (0)20 7803 1300 Fax: +44 (0)20 7803 1310 Email: general@bpi.co.uk Website: http://www.bpi.co.uk Music Managers Forum British Music House 26 Berners Street London W1T 3LR Phone: 020 7306 4888 Email: info@themmf.net Website: http://www.themmf.net AIM (Association of independent music) Lamb House Church Street London, W4 2PD Phone: 0208 994 5599 6
Fax: 0208 994 5222 Website: http://www.musicindie.com Generator Cluny Annex, 36 Lime Street Ouseburn Valley Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 2PQ Phone: 0191 231 4016 Fax: 0191 231 3795 Email: mail@generator.org.uk Website: http://www.generator.org.uk/ 3 Contact us Phone: 0845 300 6200 Email: enquiries@artscouncil.org.uk Textphone: 020 7973 6564 Website: www.artscouncil.org.uk Post: Arts Council England Grants for the arts PO Box 4353 Manchester M61 0DQ. Arts Council England June 2013 7