Community Tracks is for musicians, composers, and multi-disciplinary artists working in experimental forms of sound and music in the Omaha metro area. Participants receive a $1,000 stipend along with free access to Bemis’s rehearsal space, recording studio, audio equipment and instruments, and audio engineer staff.
To apply for Community Tracks, artists should be prepared to describe their practice and a project they wish to focus on. Applicants are encouraged to imagine a diverse array of possibilities, including a studio session, rehearsal session, discovery of new instruments and software, and more. To be eligible, applicants must live within eighty miles of Omaha, Nebraska, which includes Lincoln, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa.
To participate, eligible artists and musicians may apply through an open call application process. There is no fee to apply. Applicants are asked to submit information about their practice; level of experience with recording music (previous experience not required); a description of a creative project that is either pending or in progress, including necessary resources to complete the project; and their goals for a Community Tracks session if their application is successful.
The next submission deadline is July 11, 2025.
About
Community Tracks aims to spark collaboration between artists and musicians passionate about creating and sharing their work, and to build a greater awareness and appreciation for sound art and experimental music in Omaha and the region. Experimental music can include a wide range of genres, from classical to jazz to electronic. It often differs from traditional forms of popular music in composition, production, and performance—pushing boundaries and expectations while embracing an exploratory approach.
The program is designed to facilitate the creation of new work by providing access to tools, expertise, and facilities that otherwise might be unattainable because of financial, social, geographic, or other barriers.
Participants receive:
- Free access to Bemis’s rehearsal space, recording studio, audio equipment and instruments, and a full-time audio engineer to assist in the recording of new tracks. Sessions typically take place over two consecutive eight-hour sessions.
- A $1,000 stipend to assist with related expenses, such as gear rental, mastering, collaborator fees, etc., that may be necessary to complete their projects.
As part of Bemis’s Sound Art + Experimental Music Program, Community Tracks is generously supported by the Mellon Foundation.
Community Tracks Particpants
Winter 2025
+Giselle
Inspired by Nebraska's empty spaces, Giselle's ambient project explores the duality of weight and tranquility, using big, heavy sounds to craft a meditative and immersive sonic space.
Fall 2024
+Sener
Sener completed four songs for an upcoming album featuring Blues and Huapango rhythm structures. He also worked on improvisation with his DIY synthesizers, one of which is constructed partially of a vintage doll head.
Summer 2024
+Phill Smith
Smith recorded solo and duo improvisations, the latter with a variety of local experimental musicians. The material is intended to be released digitally as well as dubbing a small number of cassette tapes.
Spring 2024
+Natalie Hanson/Facade Queen
The project SMOOSH! integrates sound that responds to movement, transforming a mundane task into an engaging sensory experience.
Winter 2024
+TEETAH
TEETAH utilized the studio resources to instill a prominent sound and feeling into their work, with a focus on sampling available gear on field recordings around the studio and Bemis’s campus.
Fall 2023
+Stacey Barelos
Barelos created original music to accompany silent film projects, including three tracks played on both piano and toy pianos, original string and percussion instruments, and other toy instruments and found objects.
Summer 2023
+Alex Jacobsen
Drawing loose inspiration from the films La Jetée and The Passion of Joan of Arc, <chimera> weaves through sparse cinematic atmospheres, punctured by evocative noise-art and cybernetic terror, creating an introspection of the changing personal essences through time and memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Community Tracks Stipend and what can I use the funds for?
+$1,000 is given directly to the artist/group. This can be used for anything related to their proposal–mastering, pressing, digital assets, equipment rental, etc.
I plan to move outside of the 80 mile radius of Omaha after the application deadline. Can I still apply?
+No, applicants must reside within 80 miles of Omaha to be eligible for Community Tracks.
Can I apply for funds for projects that have already happened?
+No.
Who reviews the applications?
+All applications are reviewed by Bemis Center’s Chief Curator and Director of Programs and Sound Program Technician.
Why are only musicians and/or sound artists allowed to apply for this funding?
+This program is part of Bemis Center’s Sound Art + Experimental Music Program and aims to support artists and musicians working in experimental forms of sound, composition, voice, and music of all genres.
I am currently a Bemis Alumni. Am I eligible to apply?
+Yes, as long as you have an established history of working in sound art or experimental music and reside within an 80-mile radius of Bemis Center.
I’m having trouble with the online application form. Can I receive assistance with my application?
+Absolutely. Please email Keith Rodger at keith@bemiscenter.org.
When will I be notified if I am accepted into Community Tracks?
+Applicants will be notified no later than three weeks after the submission deadline. Community Tracks sessions typically take place within one month of being selected and notified.
Will the artists be announced publicly?
+Yes. Bemis Center’s communications department will work with the selected artist/musician for announcements.
What do you require to issue my stipend?
+Bemis Center will need a W9 or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) with current address
Is this stipend taxable?
+Yes.
If I am applying as part of a group, how will the stipend be distributed?
+Payment will be distributed to one person in the group, unless the group acts as an LLC, then distributed to the LLC.
Will Bemis Center give me the opportunity to share or perform my project at LOW END?
+No, participating in Community Tracks does not obligate or permit participants to perform in LOW END.
Community Tracks is generously supported by Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts and
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Contemporary Arts
724 S. 12th Street
Omaha, NE 68102
402.341.7130
info@bemiscenter.org