BBC New Music Shorts

A new filmmaking initiative from the BBC

21 July 2006. A new filmmaking initiative called BBC New Music Shorts was launched today. BBC Electric Proms, BBC Film Network and BBC New Talent are offering a challenge to new filmmakers to develop original and creative ideas around music filmmaking as part of the programme for this Autumn?s BBC Electric Proms festival.

The BBC enjoys unparalleled links with new film talent, and has partnered with the UK?s leading independent record labels - Warp Records, Ninja Tune, Domino and 679 Recordings - who have provided six tracks from their latest releases to offer filmmakers the chance to make films inspired by them. From 17 July, budding filmmakers are invited to log on to www.bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork and submit innovative ideas for new music shorts.

The BBC New Music Shorts team will commission the best and provide a budget of up to £5,000 to fund production of each short. Each piece will be produced by Warp Films and the films will be premiered at the forthcoming BBC Electric Proms festival and online at Film Network, the BBC?s interactive showcase for new British filmmakers.

BBC Electric Proms is taking place at the Roundhouse, and a selection of other North London venues from 25 ? 29 October 2006. A mix of headline acts will front the performances at BBC Electric Proms on the main stage each night, alongside upcoming artists and acoustic sets in other parts of The Roundhouse. The film strand will complement the programme of events taking place including screenings, masterclasses and other musical and visual installations.

So, what are the BBC New Music Shorts team looking for? Ideas can be for films in any genre ? documentary, animation, drama, experimental or even a straight promo ? and run any length from one to ten minutes. The challenge is to create a film that captures the music in an original way, to create a ?new music moment? in the spirit of the BBC Electric Proms.

BBC Electric Proms Festival Director Lorna Clarke said, ?BBC Electric Proms is about encompassing all elements of the musical and cultural mix. The BBC has been a long term supporter of new filmmakers and the BBC New Music Shorts programme will develop and build on that heritage.?

BBC Electric Proms will be broadcast across a number of BBC television and radio networks including BBC Two, BBC Three, Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, 1Xtra, 6 Music, BBC Asian Network and BBC World Service. There will be extensive online coverage, and digital television viewers will be able to enjoy performances on demand at the push of the red button.