Maestro Yorgos Ziavras and ÉRMA Ensemble Receive Support from Deutscher Musikrat and Podium Gegenwart

[Cologne, 24/9/2023] - Music director Yorgos Ziavras and his contemporary ensemble, ÉRMA, have been selected for a prestigious grant program by Deutscher Musikrat and Podium Gegenwart. The program, titled InSzene, is designed to provide essential support and guidance to newly formed musical ensembles and emerging soloists in the realm of contemporary music.

Over the next two years, ÉRMA Ensemble, led by co-founder and music director Yorgos Ziavras, will benefit from the generous backing and mentorship of Podium Gegenwart. This support is aimed at propelling the ensemble to new heights of artistic achievement. The program encompasses financial assistance, specialized training seminars, interactive workshops, industry-focused conferences, and the creative freedom to conceive and realize innovative projects.

InSzene: Nurturing the Future of Contemporary Music

InSzene is a forward-thinking initiative focused on empowering contemporary music ensembles and performers with tailored support to navigate the administrative and organizational challenges that often arise at the inception of their careers. The goal is to facilitate a seamless transition into the professional musical arena by offering personalized assistance.

Podium Gegenwart plays a pivotal role as the advisory hub for grantees, addressing inquiries related to project planning, and fundraising, and providing comprehensive seminars and coaching sessions. The initiative also emphasizes the cultivation of a strong public image through high-quality audio and video recordings, as well as professional websites.

Beyond consultation, InSzene places a significant emphasis on fostering an environment conducive to creativity and innovation. This includes enabling artists to conceive and actualize new projects, thereby affording them financial independence for a defined duration to fully dedicate themselves to their artistic endeavors. This encompassing support extends to both artistic and non-artistic tasks, ensuring a holistic nurturing of the beneficiaries.

Throughout the funding period, the ensembles are encouraged to consistently conceive and present their unique projects and concerts. In support of their initiatives, sponsorship arrangements will be sought to fulfill any additional financial needs, aligned with the ensembles' objectives.