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Into the Bellows
A fully-funded residential programme for three UK composers exploring the craft of writing for accordion.
The Experience
An immersive week on the Kent coast where three composers create new works in direct collaboration with internationally acclaimed accordionist Ryan Corbett, mentored by Paul Mealor LVO and John Frederick Hudson.
WHY accordion
The accordion breathes. It responds to the lightest touch and sustains through the longest phrase. This Residency explores its full expressive range: lyrical and percussive, intimate and expansive.
WHY JAM
For 25+ years, JAM has paired composers with exceptional performers. The Composer Residency continues that commitment: creating space for composers to take risks and deepen their craft.
The Residency
Dates
18-24 May 2026
In person
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Location
Kent coast, UK
Residency week
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Participants
3 composers selected
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UK-based
Focus
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Writing for accordon
New 15-minute work
Performer
Ryan Corbett
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Mentorship
Paul Mealor LVO
John Frederick Hudson
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Includes
Fully-funded residency
Professional rehearsal & filming
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Premiere
11 July: JAM Festival
November 2026: London
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The Structure
Early-May
An online mentoring session to develop your ideas and prepare for the residential weekend.
18-24 May
An in-person residential weekend on the Kent coast:
18 May
Composers arrive · Littlestone, Kent
19–20 May
Composition sessions with Paul Mealor LVO
21–24 May
Sessions with Ryan Corbett & John Frederick Hudson
June
A one-to-one online tutorial to refine your work. Final delivery of your score.
11 July
World Premiere at the JAM on the Marsh Festival in Kent.
November
A professional London performance of your new work, professionally recorded.
Who Can Apply
Open to composers aged 18+ who are living, working, or studying in the UK, at any career stage.
What We’re Looking For
Curiosity, craft and a collaborative spirit.
Style
All musical styles are welcome.
Availability
You must be available for:
— The full residential week, 18–24 May (Littlestone, Kent)
— The 11 July world premiere
What to Submit
Two contrasting examples of writing for accordion or any keyboard instrument
Statement
A brief statement (max. 300 words) outlining:
— Your experience composing for accordion or keyboard instruments
— What you hope to gain from the Residency
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a panel of composers and performers. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a short online interview.
Upload
Submit PDFs through JAM's portal.
Deadline
All entries by Monday, 20 April 2026, 5pm.
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If you have any questions, please email:
john@jamconcert.org
The Artists
Ryan Corbett
One of the most celebrated accordionists, Ryan Corbett brings extraordinary technical facility and deep musical sensitivity to his playing. A trusted partner for composers exploring new sonic territory, he combines virtuosity with a genuine openness to collaboration, making him an ideal creative companion for the Residency.
Paul Mealor LVO
Internationally acclaimed composer Paul Mealor LVO leads the Residency as its principal tutor. With works performed across the globe and a compositional voice that spans choral, orchestral and chamber music, Paul brings rare depth of experience and insight to each composer's creative development. His commitment to nurturing new voices in British music is at the heart of everything JAM does.
John Frederick Hudson
Composer, pianist, conductor, and Artistic Director of JAM, John directs the Residency and provides close compositional mentoring throughout. Drawing on over a decade of working alongside composers and world-class performers, he guides each participant from first ideas to finished, premiere-ready work.
What You’ll Leave With
Focused, practical outcomes designed to strengthen your craft and your professional profile.
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A new 15-min work for accordion
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Professional performer collaboration and rehearsal
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Personalised compositional mentoring from Paul Mealor LVO
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Audio and film documentation
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A world premiere in 11 July 2026
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A London premiere in November 2026
“My association with JAM has not only been invaluable, but essential to my development as a composer.”
Hannah Kendall
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Composer
Frequently asked Questions
Do I need to be early-career to apply?
No. The Intensive is open to UK-based composers aged 18+ at any career stage.
Do I need to write in a particular style?
All styles are welcome. We are looking for craft, curiosity and a collaborative spirit.
Do I need experience writing for accordion?
No. Prior experience writing for accordion is not essential, though familiarity with keyboard writing is helpful.
Do I need to be available for the entire Residency?
Yes. You must be available for the full residential week, arriving in Littlestone on 18 May and remaining through 24 May, as well as 11 July 2026 world premiere.
Is there a fee to take part?
No. The Residency is fully funded and includes mentoring, the residential week, rehearsal, performance, and professional recording and filming.
What costs do I need to cover?
Travel to and from the Kent coast is the composer’s responsibility unless otherwise stated.
What accommodation is provided?
Accommodation during the residential week is provided free of charge. Composers will share a cottage in Littlestone, Kent, each with a private bedroom and access to a shared bathroom. Bedding and towels are provided.
When will the online tutorials take place?
Online sessions will be arranged individually. Details will be confirmed after selection.
Will the residency be recorded?
Yes. In addition to the November performance being professionally recorded, a filmmaker will attend the residential week to document sessions as part of a guide on writing for accordion.
I have additional questions
Please email john@jamconcert.org
