Call for Vocal Chamber Works Inspired by the Theme of Black Declaration of Independence

“Revolution involves the total transformation of society and the liberation of all people, not a few.” (From “We Refuse: A Forceful History of Black Resistance” by Dr. Kellie Carter Jackson

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July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. To invite reflection on what this sesquicentennial means and the complicated history, present tense and future of the United States, we welcome composers of the African diaspora to submit proposals for vocal chamber works inspired by the theme of Black Declaration of Independence.

Available Instrumentation and Voice Types:

Voice Types: soprano, mezzo, tenor, countertenor, bass and baritone. Up to four (4) voice types may be used. Plus…
Available Instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, harp, piano, flute (including piccolo and/or alto). Option of any combination of 3-6 available instruments.

Note: Unaccompanied vocal works are not permitted.

Note: If inspired to use electronics and/or multimedia, please specify the nature of what technology is required/how you envision using this medium.

Text & Inspiration:

You are free to choose – and obtain the necessary permission to use – existing text that resonates with you on the theme of Black Declaration of Independence. You’re welcome to also create your own text to set for vocal chamber ensemble. Please find a non-exhaustive list of possible topics to spark your inspiration:

Black spirituality through any number of religious practices, ceremonies and rituals
Black creativity through visual art, food, movement, music, etc
Black agency through literacy, politics, expressions of self-determinations, and agricultural systems
Black societies including institutions (e.g. HBCUs), salons and settlement houses, and self-defined communities (e.g. maroon societies)
Black identity through Black feminism, LGBTQIA+ rights, etc
Black preservation through expressions of self-care, joy and wellness practices
Historical figures including abolitionists, civil rights activists, political figures, and freedom fighters
Historical events/movements including those of national independence (e.g. Haitian, Jamaican, South African, etc independence)

Eligibility:

This call for proposals is open to composers of the African diaspora. While the inspiration of this call is related to American history, composers of African descent residing anywhere in the world may submit a proposal. There is no age limit, stylistic restriction, or professional status requirement (e.g. post-secondary academic prerequisite, professional status of “emerging” or “established”, etc).

Compensation:

A total of two (2) proposals will be selected to develop into works that Castle of our Skins will premiere in June 2026 in Boston. Each selected composer will receive $3,000 and high quality video/audio recordings of their world premiere performance.

Key dates:

Monday, January 13, 2025: proposal announced
Friday, February 28th, 2025, 11:59pm: submission closes (late submissions will not be accepted)
March 2025: Internal review/selection period
Tuesday, April 15, 2025: public announcement of two (2) winners
Friday, March 6, 2026: deadline for score and parts to be submitted to COOS
June 2026: world premiere performance

How to Submit Your Proposal:

All submissions must be sent using the AirTable form on our website. Should you run into technical difficulties, please reach out to Ashleigh@CastleSkins.org.

About Castle of our Skins:

Castle of our Skins is a Black arts institution dedicated to fostering cultural curiosity and celebrating Black artistry through music. In classrooms, concert halls, and beyond, Castle of our Skins invites Black heritage and culture exploration, spotlighting both unsung and celebrated figures of past and present. Learn more at www.CastleSkins.org

Questions?

Please don’t hesitate to ask! Send any inquiries to: Ashleigh@castleskins.org.