Gotham Early Music Scene

Voices of Music (VoM) and Gotham Early Music Scene (GEMS) are pleased to announce Picture THIS!, a tuition-free video skills workshop for early music artists. This joint initiative will provide a select group of early music ensembles with an intensive, hands-on opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge needed to create compelling video content for today’s audiences.

The program combines artistic excellence with practical, contemporary skills, creating an immersive environment in which participants refine their historically informed performance practices, collaborate with peers and faculty, and develop the tools needed to navigate today’s digital and musical landscape.

Through coaching, collaborative sessions, and hands-on workshops, participants will develop both their musicianship and their ability to present their work beyond the stage, with a particular focus on recording, videography, digital presence, and audience engagement. The program includes ensemble coaching, individual feedback, and practical instruction in creating compelling video content.

The workshop will culminate in two opportunities to put these skills into practice: a professional video session at Opera America, where ensembles will create polished video content with faculty guidance and professional-grade equipment, and a live-streamed performance hosted by GEMS at St. Malachy’s in New York.

Our goal is to equip emerging and established artists alike with the confidence and practical skills to perform, present, and promote their work effectively in today’s musical landscape—all within a supportive and creative environment.

Picture THIS! is open to ensembles of singers and instrumentalists of all ages and experience levels who specialize in Historically Informed Performance. Eligible ensembles must:

• perform using period instruments and/or historically informed vocal practices;
• consist of two to six musicians (larger ensembles, such as Baroque orchestras, may apply with the intention of sending a chamber ensemble).

The following keyboard instruments will be available to participants:

• Flemish single-manual harpsichord. (a’=415 or 440 Hz, 2 x 8’ with a buff stop, all with stop levers in the keywell. 51-note range from C’ to d”‘. Plastic jacks and plectra.)
• Flemish single-manual harpsichord. (a’=415 Hz, 8’ with a buff stop plus 4’, all with stop levers in the keywell. 51-note range from C’ to d”‘. Plastic jacks and plectra.)

Due to logistical constraints, ensembles featuring fortepiano or organ cannot be considered.

Up to three ensembles will be selected through a jury-adjudicated application process. Applications will be accepted through December 1, 2026, and applicants will be notified of their status by January 15, 2027.

• Ensemble Point of Contact: Name and email address
• Ensemble Name and Location (City, State, Country)
• Ensemble Members and Instrumentation/Voice Types
• Ensemble Biography: 200 words maximum
• Two Performance Examples: Provided as YouTube links to publicly available or unlisted videos
• Short Explanation of Previous Recording Experience
• Ensemble Website (optional)