FAQ's

Who is eligible for this fellowship?

Musicians, arts administrators, and ensembles working in the classical, contemporary, or jazz fields who self-identify as female or non-binary are eligible to apply. Ensembles or bands with 2–5 members are eligible if at least 50% of the group identifies as female or non-binary. We welcome applicants regardless of citizenship status.

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What does this fellowship offer?

If selected, you or your ensemble will receive customized coaching to help develop your artistic vision, strengthen your brand, grow your professional network, and connect with a supportive community of peers.

bespoken provides:

• 8 individual mentorship sessions (October 2025 – May 2026)

• 3 group workshops led by established artists and industry professionals

• Remote access to your mentor for additional advice and support between sessions

Fellows receive:

• Practical guidance to achieve goals, build connections, and access resources

• Motivation and introductions to a network of projects, organizations, and institutions

• Honest perspective, encouragement, and accountability​
   

Where are one-on-one sessions held?

All mentoring sessions are held remotely via Zoom. Sessions are scheduled each month (October 2025 – May 2026) at a mutually agreed time. Fellows receive a scheduling email at the start of each month.

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How are fellows paired with mentors?

bespoken’s founders and mentors, Gina Izzo and Eunbi Kim, personally match fellows and ensembles with the mentor whose experience best aligns with the goals and projects outlined in their applications.

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How are the group workshops structured?​

Workshops are held remotely via Zoom throughout the fellowship year. They bring fellows together to learn from each other and guest speakers, ask questions, and explore topics relevant to working in the music industry. Past workshops have featured renowned professional artists and industry leaders. 

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Who is this opportunity for?

bespoken is designed for ambitious women and non-binary artists in classical, contemporary, and jazz music who are ready to:

• Grow their skills, refine project ideas, and expand their network

• Develop or advance a musical project or initiative

• Build confidence in navigating the industry

• Connect with a supportive community of peers and mentors

• Commit to one monthly mentoring session (1 hour) for the full fellowship period
   

What is required to participate?

Fellows are expected to:

• Attend one remote one-on-one mentoring session per month

• Participate in three optional group workshops

• Commit to the program for its full duration: October 1, 2025 - May 31, 2026

• Dedicate at least five hours each month to work independently on projects and goals

• Stay in touch with their mentor between sessions to ask questions and share progress

 

Is there a fee to participate?

Yes. The fellowship fee is $750 per individual participant and $950 for ensembles (2-5 musicians). There is no fee to apply.

 

How do I apply?

Applications are open on July 16, 2025 and are open until August 29, 2025, at 5 PM ET. The 2025–26 fellowship runs from October 1, 2025 - May 31, 2026. After reviewing written applications, selected applicants will be notified by email.

 

How are fellows selected?

An Advisory Committee reviews applications and selects fellows based on:

• Applications – clarity of your project and how it aligns with the program

• Goals – how you plan to use the fellowship and what you hope to gain from mentorship

• Impact – the difference this fellowship will make in your career development

 

Questions?

Reach out to us anytime at letsbespoken@gmail.com — we’re happy to help!