DO YOU QUALIFY?

Please answer the following six questions to see if you qualify for one of our music grants.

1. Are you a Canadian citizen living with a mental illness?   Y  /  N 
2. Do you have a medical diagnosis from a Canadian medical facility or doctor?  Y  /  N
   (Note: Due to the volume of applications we receive, we require a letter of reference from a medical professional to confirm your diagnosis. This step ensures fairness in the selection process. Your personal medical information will never be shared or published without your written consent.)
3. Are you an adult and have you reached the age of majority in your province or territory?      Y  /  N
   (The age of majority varies between 18 and 19 depending on the province or territory. Please check the legal age of adulthood where you live.)
4. Do you write, perform, and/or compose your own original music?  Y  /  N
5. Are you eager to change the way people view individuals living with mental illness through your music and the message in your music?  Y  /  N
6. Do you have a dream of releasing your music to the world?  Y  /  N

If you answered YES to all six questions, we encourage you to fill out the application below.  We would love to help you fulfill your dreams. 

HOW IT WORKS

Each year we select Canadian musicians, composers, or performers living with mental illness who are either unpublished or would benefit from additional support.

Our Selection Committee consists of experienced musicians, composers, and Canadian music industry veterans.  Each applicant will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Impact and beauty of the music composition
• Message and strength of the lyrics
• Uniqueness of sound
• Production vision (e.g., additional vocals or instruments)

Submission Requirements

• Submit your music via YouTube or streaming service link or download link, such as WeTransfer.
• Provide lyrics for each song.
• Minimum of 2-3 songs are required for consideration.

All applicants will be contact to acknowledge receipt of their submission; however, only selected artists will receive notification of acceptance into our program.

What We Offer

• Selected artists will be assigned a project coordinator and a record producer/engineer.
• BIRDSONG will cover production and mastering costs for 1-2 songs.
• You will retain full rights to your original music, which will be registered through SOCAN in your name.

After Release: Once released (via CD or downloading sales), BIRDSONG will recoup only our production costs. After which all we ask for is a 50% donation of any revenue from music sales for the 3 years.  This will allow us to continue our grant program and grow the BIRDSONG family.

In addition to covering production costs, BIRDSONG will help launch and promote your music, including arranging performance opportunities, as well as publicity and marketing. We're here to support you every step of the way!

HOW TO APPLY

1. Complete the 3-page application form (download button below) and email it along with 2-3 original music compositions. You can submit your music via:
   • YouTube video link
   • A video recorded on your phone
   • Download link, i.e. WeTransfer:
   • Memory stick (mailed with lyrics and the application)

Note: Songs must be submitted in either mp3 or mp4 format and lyrics should be types and delivered in a Word document. 

Send your application, music and lyrics to:

• Email: birdsongnewmusic@gmail.com
• Mail: 8 Hartington Place, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 1J1, Canada