Musicians are once again being offered funding to travel across the Channel Islands and northern France, thanks to arts organizations in Jersey and Guernsey covering touring costs.
So far, 18 bands have received assistance to perform at various venues and festivals, including the Chaos Festival, The Vault in Guernsey, La Beltane Festival in Sark, and several events in Jersey. This initiative, which launched last year, is a collaboration between ArtHouse Jersey and Guernsey Arts.
The funding is available for a variety of musicians, including sound artists, classical musicians, bands, and singer-songwriters. It aims to help build local audiences while also facilitating access to the French live-music scene and fostering exchanges with artists in Brittany and Normandy.
Greg Alliban of the band The Perchard’s Wall shared his experience with the fund, describing their summer 2024 tour as the “Channel Islands World Tour.” He expressed gratitude for the support, stating that it allowed the band to expand their reach beyond Jersey and contribute to their upcoming album.
James Tyson, Head of Programme for ArtHouse Jersey, highlighted the transformative nature of these opportunities for professional musicians, emphasizing their importance in building careers and promoting the Channel Islands’ cultural presence.
Russ Fossey, Head of Arts Development for Guernsey Arts, echoed this sentiment, noting that the fund has facilitated grassroots connections among musicians and is now expanding opportunities to France, promoting talent from both islands.
For details on how to apply for the funding, visit https://www.arthousejersey.je/channel-islands-artist-touring-support-fund