Booked vs applied

Headline festivals in our 2026 festival calendar mostly book through agents and promoters (see getting a booking agent). Showcases and conferences are where open calls live — and they feed those bookers.

Open calls worth tracking (2026 cycle)

  • All About Music — Pitch to Perform. Submit a 2:00–2:30 live audio-visual recording via Google Drive; shortlisted acts must be able to play at least 20 minutes. The 2026 deadline was 25 July 2026. Rights clearances (IPRS/PPL/Novex) may be requested.
  • IFP Fest. Open to original performers in any genre or language; showreel upload; 2026 applications closed 25 September for shows in Mumbai on 24–25 October. Bring and handle your own gear.
  • IPRS Soundscapes of India. IPRS invited artists and bands of any genre and language for the 29–31 August 2026 edition (Music Ally).
  • India International Music Week (IIMW). Showcase conference in Mumbai; the 2026 edition (10–12 February) closed applications on 10 October 2025 — expect the next call around that window.
  • TOTO Awards for Music. Not a festival, but a jury showcase: three original tracks via YouTube links, ages 18–29, Indian citizens in India; two prizes of ₹60,000 (2026 cycle, deadline 30 September 2025).

Dates above are for past cycles — set calendar reminders and re-check each organiser's page.

What every application needs

  • A clean live video — most panels want proof you can play, not a studio track.
  • An EPK with bio, photos, links, past shows.
  • Original material and cleared rights (sample clearance).
  • A tech rider — IFP explicitly says no last-minute technical requests.

After you're selected

Read the terms: AAM's states selection doesn't guarantee bookings and grants promo use of your name and footage. Put fees, travel and set length in writing — gig contract checklist.

Also see grants and funding and open mics.

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