NEST — FAQ

How long will NEST last for this second cycle?

It'll last for 7 months and it won't require full-time engagement from the selected participants.

Is there an age limit for participating in NEST?

No, there is no age limit.

I have a full-time job. Will this affect my commitment to NEST?

Artists in NEST can continue their normal lives and full-time jobs. NEST is curated in a way that fits people around their full-time commitments.

How much commitment is required to be part of NEST?

Artists are expected to dedicate two full days weekly, allowing them to balance with other responsibilities they might have.

I’m just starting out and don’t have any original music yet. Can I still apply?

NEST is designed to help you, even if you’re just starting out with your music journey. However, note that NEST is not a conservatory and/or formal academic degree for teaching music, but rather a program focused on developing and advancing the careers of musicians/artists.

I’m Palestinian but live outside of Palestine. Can I join NEST?

You can take part in online sessions (masterclasses/webinars) and benefit from networking opportunities at all levels. You might also join in-person camps or gatherings outside Palestine.

I participated in the first cycle of NEST. Am I eligible to apply again?

Yes, you are eligible to join the second cycle, even if you've participated in the first.

My English is limited. Will this be an issue?

We provide Arabic interpretation and translation if required. Please let us know in advance if you require this level of support.

Can I register just for certain sessions / masterclasses instead of the full program?

Yes, you can. Please contact us at nest@jafraproductions.com for more details.

Does NEST offer financial support for participating artists?

Yes, we offer indirect financial support by working with our finalists to develop customized plans tailored to their needs.

What kind of production and showcase opportunities does NEST provide?

Selected artists in the second phase will receive full production support, including participation in a songwriting camp with mentors and supervisors. They will also join a live music camp to prepare for showcasing their music in front of seasoned industry professionals, who're capable of taking an artist career further.

What networking opportunities does NEST offer?

NEST has an extensive global network of music professionals and industry partners. While we provide the platform and opportunities, success depends on your proactive engagement and time spent throughout the entire duration of the program.

If I live in a city, village, or camp where travel is difficult or risky, will this affect my participation?

NEST aims to include artists from Gaza, the West Bank, Jerusalem, Area 48, and the Syrian Golan Heights. While transportation challenges may arise due to the situation in Palestine, we strive to accommodate participants as much as possible.

I’m interested in learning a specific instrument. Can NEST help with this?

NEST is not an academic institution or conservatory. We focus on career development and support for artists.

What does the application process look like, and when will I know if I’ve been selected?

The application process includes reviewing submissions, and we will notify selected participants one week after the open call closes on January 5, 2025.

Are there any costs or fees associated with participating in NEST?

NEST is free of charge, with no registration fees.

Will I have one-on-one mentorship, group mentorship, or both?

Both one-on-one and group mentorship opportunities are provided.

Are artists from all genres of music encouraged to apply?

Yes, NEST celebrates diversity and welcomes artists from all genres, including those without a defined genre.

What happens if I can’t attend all sessions or activities? Is there flexibility in attendance?

Attendance and commitment are crucial in NEST. Missing sessions will result in lost opportunities.

How will the “showcase opportunities” work, and where will these showcases take place?

The showcase is designed for artists to present their music to a selection committee. Depending on the situation, the showcase will take place in Palestine or France for this cycle

Will NEST help me in developing my brand or artistic identity?

Yes, Artistic Identity is one of this year’s main themes, and NEST will provide significant support in this area.

How will NEST help with digital marketing and PR for artists?

NEST brings global experts, consultants, and companies to support artists. In the second and third phases, customized PR and marketing plans will be offered.

Are there opportunities for me to perform outside of Palestine as part of NEST?

Yes, NEST’s network includes festivals, showcase festivals, promoters, agencies, and festival managers who can provide opportunities to perform globally.

Will NEST help with song or track production, even if I haven’t started anything yet?

Yes, if selected for the second phase, you’ll participate in the songwriting camp to produce music from scratch.

What does it mean by the phases of NEST? Do all participants in NEST get the same opportunities?

NEST is designed in three phases. You can read about each phase HERE. At the end of each phase, an external committee selects the artists who will move on to the next phase. The opportunities you receive will depend on your artistic vision, project, and level of commitment.

What does the external committee mean?

At Jafra Productions, we bring three separate external committees composed of industry partners to evaluate and select artists at each phase. Jafra acts only as an observer and does not have any control over the committee’s decisions.

Does NEST require you to sign a contract?

No, NEST does not require you to sign any contract or deal in general. However, in the second phase, when you begin producing your music, there will be contracts specifically for the tracks you produce. Additionally, NEST sends a commitment letter outlining the dates and stages that all participating artists need to be aware of.