The Continuation of Diversity Fund for Filmmakers
The rights of SESAC and New Music USA have announced further financing for the change in the coil: the diversity fund in film.
Changing coils is a program that provides grants and mentoring for composers from marginalized backgrounds in film composition, supported by SESAC and composer Christoph Bek, and managed by New Music USA.
Extended Support for Film Projects
The fund, initially created in 2020, has been extended for an additional three years.
It supports film projects currently in production, where additional funding and mentoring will assist composers at a pivotal point in their careers.
Each year, four to six grants averaging $20,000 will be awarded. Eligible expenses include composer compensation, musician fees, recording and mastering costs, studio expenses, orchestration, production equipment, and more. In its first five years, the change in the coil supported 29 grants and provided $450,000 in financing.
Erin Collins, Senior Vice President of Television/Films at SESAC Performing Rights, stated: “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with New Music USA to advance the film industry and uplift underrepresented voices.
“We are pleased to continue our work with New Music USA in order to advance the world of film and protect unrepresented voices.”
Erin Collins, SESAC Performing Rights
Collins further emphasized: “At SESAC Performing Rights, we firmly believe in the mission of this fund and strive to build upon the successes that have emerged since the coil began to change five years ago.”
Vanessa Reed, President and Chief Executive Director of New Music USA, remarked: “New Music USA is proud to continue collaborating with SESAC Performing Rights and Christoph Bek as partners in delivering the coil change fund.”
“New Music USA is proud to continue our cooperation with SESAC Performing Rights and Christoph Bek as partners in delivering the coil change fund.”
Vanessa Reed, New Music USA
Reed added: “We are thankful for this pivotal support of composers from historically underrepresented backgrounds in film, and we believe that the continuation of this program will help enrich film soundtracks today and in the future.”
“The Changes of the Coils Fund has been a substantial financial aid in elevating my craft to a new level.”
Chanell Crichlow, 2023
2023 grant recipient Chanell Crichlow stated: “The Fund for Changing the Coils has provided significant financial support in enhancing my craft to new heights.
“This opportunity has allowed me to refine my skills and utilize various tools more effectively to shape a scene and score.”
Applications are evaluated by an advisory council comprised of leading film composers, including Christoph Bek, Chonnik “J. B.”, Chris Bauers, Miriam Katler, Candy Dance, Vivek Maddal, Tony Morales, Carlos Rafael Rivera, and Pinar Toprak.
Members of this advisory council will provide additional support and mentoring to grant recipients.
To apply and learn more about the 29 grant recipients and the advisory council, visit: Change of Coil: The Diversity Fund in Film – New Music USA
