Red Bull Music Academy to relocate

With Japan’s capital still readjusting after the country’s troubles, on April 11 the Red Bull Music Academy will announce a new location for 2011 instead of Tokyo, while applications for this year’s Academy have been extended to April 26.

Red Bull Music Academy made the following statement about the plans to change the destination for this year:

We have been in close contact with our Japanese team and friends since the terrible earthquake and tsunami struck on March 11, and the severe problems at the Fukushima nuclear plant began. After thorough evaluation, we decided to relocate this year's edition of the Academy, which was set to take place in Japan this autumn.

A new location for the Red Bull Music Academy 2011 will be announced as of Monday, April 11. As a consequence, we have decided to extend the application period: applications will now be accepted until April 26 (date of postmark).

The dates of the workshops, October 23 to November 25, will remain the same, as will the application form and jury process. All applicants will be notified by July, whether they have been accepted to join the Academy or not.

Throughout the past months of preparation for the Tokyo Academy, we have got to know Japan as a country immensely rich in spirit, beauty, tradition and innovative energy. We are honoured to have been introduced to so many interesting people and to have been allowed to experience some of their creative vision. We truly admire and respect their strength and courage in the face of this terrible situation.

We at the Academy also wish to show our solidarity and support for the Japanese music makers who have been part of our journey. Hence, the Red Bull Music Academy floor at SónarSound Tokyo this weekend will go ahead as planned. All profits from the festival will be donated in support to those affected by the horrific events of March 11 and their aftermaths.

We will continue to maintain strong links with the musical and creative scene in the country, and hope to bring the full Academy experience to Japan in the not too distant future.