Fund supporting emerging Indigenous musical talent in Montana opens application period

Press release

A group is offering Indigenous Montana musicians a hand up to enhance their careers with a stipend and mentorship.

“The legacy of Billy Conway (1956-2021), one of the most influential drummers in American music history, continues to inspire and support the next generation of artists through the Billy Conway Artist Fund,” a release about the fund said. “Known for his exceptional skill, creative generosity, and deep connection to Montana, Conway’s spirit lives on in a unique opportunity for Indigenous musicians in the region.”

Conway died at age 65 in 2021 after a lengthy battle with cancer.

BCAF opened Tuesday its application cycle for 2024, offering an unparalleled mentorship and financial assistance program designed to elevate the careers of emerging Indigenous musical artists from Montana. This initiative not only honors Conway’s remarkable contributions to music but also his belief in the transformative power of mentorship and community support.

BCAF Advisory Committee members include Montana-based indigenous artists and leaders Ben Pease, Shelly Fyant and Francesca Pine-Rodriguez.

“I am honored to be working with local indigenous artists and leaders to launch this fund,” BCAF founder Laurie Sargent said in the release.

Conway’s career was marked by a fearless exploration of musical boundaries and a profound commitment to artistic collaboration. From his beginnings with bands like Treat Her Right and Morphine, to his innovative work with legends across genres, Conway’s influence on music is immeasurable. Conway’s relentlessly inventive, eerily intuitive player whose particular combination of spiritual authority and delicate restraint made him at once versatile and easily recognizable.

“His approach to life and music — emphasizing improvement, generosity, and readiness — shapes the mission of the BCAF,” the release said.

Eligibility and application details

• Applicant Requirements: Open to solo musical artists who are 18 years of age and older, US citizens, and Indigenous residents of Montana with an existing catalogue of original music.

• Program Overview: Selected artists will engage in an intensive six-month mentorship, meeting bi-monthly with a primary mentor and regularly with guest mentors from Conway’s network of collaborators. The program includes public performance opportunities, recording sessions, development of social media marketing strategies, and production of a promotional video.

• Support: Artists will receive a stipend throughout their term, along with comprehensive guidance in technical skills, networking, marketing, and more. Collaboration with other artists and participation in live performances are encouraged, with travel expenses covered by BCAF.

How to apply

Interested artists should submit an application detailing their musical background, goals, challenges, and how they believe mentorship can enhance their career. Applicants are also required to send two original recordings (audio and visual). The application period for the Billy Conway Artist Fund 2024 cycle opened Tuesday, March 12, and closes April 24, 2024. For more information, and to apply, people can visit https://www.billyconwayartistfund.org .