2026 CMAA Academy Sister Cities Nashville Exchange - Application Form

This CMAA Academy Nashville cultural exchange program is a partnership between the CMAA and Sister Cities Nashville. Our part of the exchange has been made possible by funding from Sound NSW and a generous donation from Maton Australia. It will include return airfares from Australia to Nashville and accommodation for one past graduate, plus a modest daily per diem for 21 days (accommodation will be billeted through Sister Cities Nashville). The Nashville visit will include participation in the iconic AMERICANAFEST festival and conference (15 - 19 Sept 2026) and the registration fee will be part of the exchange. The selected participant may potentially also be part of showcase events presented by Sounds Australia, who have been involved in the Nashville event for fifteen years (subject to Sounds Australia's ongoing involvement in Americanafest). Some song writing and live performance opportunities will be organised for the successful applicant at the discretion of The Academy. This opportunity is only available to past ACADEMY GRADUATES who are current financial members of the CMAA. Successful applicants will be aged 21 or over*, must have a valid passport and be able to organise their ESTA visa to enter the USA. As performances will not be paid, the VISA waiver program will apply. Past recipients have suggested that the Americanfest event ideally should fall in the middle of the visit, so applicants can take advantage of contacts developed at the event. Applicants will need to be available between approximately 7 - 28 September 2026 and may choose to extend their stay by negotiation. Applicants should also ensure they have sufficient funding for extra expenses. *AGE RESTRICTION: 21 and over. You must be aged 21 or over to enter licensed premises in the USA. As many events and activities will be taking place inside licensed premises, it is a requirement for you to be aged 21 and over to apply for this exchange program.