Academy Launches Jonas Gwangwa Music Initiative for Black British Composers

variety.com:

Jazz Tangcay Artisans EditorThe Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the launch of the Jonas Gwangwa Music Composition Initiative, a program to help Black British musicians who are interested in developing a career in film composing.The program begins in October and is in partnership with Mercury Studios.

In celebration of the late South African musician, composer and Oscar nominee Jonas Gwangwa (“Cry Freedom”), the program will provide real-world experience, one-on-one mentorship and networking opportunities.Part of the Academy’s ongoing Aperture 2025 global outreach and engagement efforts, the initiative aims to foster broader representation in film music composition, with an emphasis on Black British talent.

The initiative was spearheaded by U.K.-based Academy members Gary Yershon (Music Branch), Misan Sagay (Writers Branch) and Nainita Desai (Music Branch). “This initiative seeks to correct an imbalance.

In contrast to the major contributions Black musicians are making to the music industry in the U.K., their presence in the U.K.