The Fondo de Arte Joven (FAJ) and the United Nations Children's Fund in Cuba (UNICEF Cuba), are calling for the First Edition of the National Music Contesta unique opportunity for teenagers.

The call is aimed at musicians in formal or informal training (artistic education or self-taught), of Cuban nationality, residing in Cuba, between 12 and 18 years of age, and will remain in force until October 15, 2024.

The teenagers will compete with a video where their performance, as a soloist, of one or more musical works of free choice is appreciated. Complete works, movements of works, new creations, songs, or improvisations apply.

The application is made through the online Application Form available on the FAJ website, in which they must also attach the documentation required by the platform and UNICEF Cuba.

• Click here here to access the form

The competition has three competition categories: Category A: 12-14 years old; Category B: 15-16 years old and Category C: 17-18 years old.. A total of three awardsone for each of the above-mentioned categories.

The prizes will consist of full funding (all expenses covered) for the participation of each winner (with an accompanying adult) in a week-long creative exchange program in Havana. The program will include activities, rehearsal sessions and master classes given by young musicians who are winners of the FAJ calls for proposals, and by renowned Cuban musicians committed to children and UNICEF Cuba goodwill ambassadors.

The program will conclude with a concert at the Teatro del Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes de Cuba, which will bring together on stage - and in previous rehearsal sessions - the winners, together with young beneficiaries of FAJ's call for proposals program and renowned musicians.

The first edition of the National Music Contest not only seeks to promote creative processes that favor the spiritual growth, creativity and expression of adolescents, but also seeks to generate a positive impact on the artistic and professional training of this population in Cuba, within the framework of the celebration of the 35th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.