The GRID program, a transformative initiative aimed at supporting early-career artists, is making waves in regional and outer suburban Victoria.
Since its inception in 2013, GRID has focused on helping talented musicians access industry connections, production resources, and the necessary support to launch their music careers. For the second year running in the Geelong region, the program is making an impact on the local music scene, culminating in the first major event; Sonder.
The event has been pulled together by the successful applicants of this year’s GRID program; Emilia Fol, Madeleine Cope, FARAH and Tonite.
Sonder
- When: Sunday 16 March, 2pm – 5.30pm
- Where: Little Creatures, Geelong
- Tickets: here!
Keep up with the latest music news, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
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Victorian Program Manager N’fa F-Jones says Grid is a platform with the intention of bridging the gap between artists in their early careers.
“These artists have a lot of talent and ability but are maybe missing out on that access to industry, production, proper release of music and rollout.”
The program focuses on connecting emerging artists with producers, mentors, and filmmakers to help them navigate the often confusing and isolated world of the music industry.
GRID’s artist-led approach ensures that while artists receive support, they are still in control of their journey. “Each program across the country is different but they’re all artist-led. We line up good producers, a film team, industry mentors, and then people apply,” says F-Jones. “We usually work with four artists we feel are the most ready to take that next step.”
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The program kicks off with an intensive weekend workshop that connects them with key industry mentors. “They connect with producers and set up a plan for the following six months,” F-Jones says.
Artists then enter one-on-one sessions with producers in studio environments, where they receive tailored guidance and production support. The program also extends its focus beyond the artists themselves by supporting their “hype person” — the individual who has championed them behind the scenes, often taking photos at shows or promoting their work. This additional support aims to help hype people transition into industry roles, such as artist liaison or photographer.
The Sonder event, which showcases four artists selected from a pool of 60 applicants, serves as a highlight of the program. “It was really hard to choose, but the four artists playing offer a really fresh breath into the music industry,” F-Jones says. “They’re super special, it was one of the reasons we chose them.
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“The event is going to be a great one and we know people want to support local music so this is a good opportunity to show up.” With the summer season nearly over, F-Jones encourages the community to come out and celebrate the local talent making waves in the music scene.
“After this program, we’ll have an alumni of eight artists and 16, including hype people and that flow of energy can influence others in the area. It’s all about dropping ways forward and ideas for local musicians.”
“It can feel really stagnant when it feels like you don’t have anything going on in your area, but it’s a matter of accessing it,” says F-Jones.
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GRID has already seen impressive outcomes from its past participants. “Last year we saw Baraka the Kid receive a Music Vic nomination, and he recently played at the Australian Open. Daisy Kilbourne has been super busy with shows and making music, and Wild Gloriosa just won an APRA and the Music Vic award,” F-Jones proudly shares.
These successes, all stemming from Geelong, are a testament to the program’s potential to shape the future of the music industry.
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With a strong track record and a growing community of passionate artists and industry professionals, GRID is helping to ensure that Victoria’s regional talent gets the recognition and support they deserve. As F-Jones says, “It’s nice to be able to share opportunity out here. Music is a beautiful way to funnel and channel frustration, anxiety, love, passion, and you can do that all yourself from home, but the moments you get to connect with other people in your area and from the industry are super vital.”
With the future looking bright for GRID’s alumni and participants, the program remains a beacon of hope for aspiring musicians across the state – get your tix to Sonder here!
