Trans Music Archive x Figure 8 Recording
2026 Residency Program

Back for another year, we’re partnering with Figure 8 Recording to offer an eight day recording residency for two trans artists / bands.

Two artists / bands will be chosen for an eight day recording residency at Figure 8 Recording in Brooklyn, NY from December 12th through 19th with one artist in each of the two studios at Figure 8. We will provide in house engineers to help efficiently use the space and time.

We will also provide a $1500 stipend for each of the chosen artists / bands to make this residency as equitable as possible. If you are able, please consider making a donation to support our programs.

Purpose

We’re doubling down on our investment in our residency program to provide studio time and recording space to trans artists and to aid and support in the completion of a recording/body of work. After our inbox was flooded with applications last year, we knew we had to do it again.

Requirements

  • Must self-identify as a trans artist, or a band with a majority trans members or principal writers.

  • Must be an active project and have previously released music.

  • Must be local to the New York City area or be able to travel to NYC for the duration of the program. We are unable to offer housing or travel expenses beyond the stipend provided.

  • Must be able to fully utilize Figure 8 Recording’s space - bands and live acts preferred for this residency.

How to write a compelling application:

  • Demonstrate that your album / EP is written, prepared and demo’d. We want you to leave December with a project that’s on it’s way to post production.

  • Include a well thought out plan for how to use your time, and the instruments / expertise available. Maybe browse the gear lists on Figure 8 Recording’s website.

  • Bring your recording experience to the table. We want you, and your collaborators to be comfortable and efficient in a studio environment.

Can I apply again, if I’ve already applied to a Trans Music Archive residency?

Yes! Please do.

What is the application process / timeline?

  1. Submit your application via the form below before October 1st.

  2. With the help of a panel, we will chose a small handful of artists to interview by October 21st. All other applicants will be notified at this time.

  3. We will interview the remaining candidates by October 31st at which point we will make our final decision.

Figure 8 Recording, Brooklyn, NY

Figure 8 Recording is a two studio facility located in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn centered around a Neve 5316 operating upstairs, and an SSL AWS 900 downstairs. The studio boasts a huge collection of vintage recording equipment and instruments available for your use. Artists such as Big Thief, Adrianne Lenker, Pussy Riot, Julien Baker, and Frankie Cosmos are just a few who have recorded here. Figure 8 Recording is generously providing studio space and staff for this residency program.

Application

Note: You will not receive a confirmation email after submitting this form. If you see the “Thank you for submitting” message above, we have received your submission.

Disclaimers

The recordings produced from this residency are solely yours. Neither Trans Music Archive nor Figure 8 Recording have any rights to your masters or publishing from the work derived at the residency program.

The information you submit in your application will only be shared within Trans Music Archive personnel, our judging panel and corresponding staff at Figure 8 Recording.