SongMakers will see music industry experts hold songwriting and contemporary music industry skills development workshops in Victoria for over 1,400 young people.
Victoria’s thriving music scene receives a significant boost as the state government commits $2 million to the high school songwriting program, SongMakers, a move applauded by APRA AMCOS, the nation’s largest music industry body.
In a media conference held at the Australian Music Vault, Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks announced the funding, marking a pivotal moment in Victoria’s dedication to nurturing emerging musical talent and fostering a thriving creative economy. Over 1,400 students from 60 high schools will have the opportunity to dive into the world of songcraft, gaining insights into music production, creative techniques, and the intricacies of intellectual property.
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Local artists and industry experts will take centre stage, conducting in-person workshops to guide students through the songwriting process and help them uncover their musical talents. For students in years 10 to 12, workshops will be held in collaboration with Virtual School Victoria, while regional students will have access to a specialised songwriting holiday program.
A unique pilot program, tailored to schools offering flexible learning, ensures inclusivity, allowing all students to explore their creative potential. Exceptional songwriters will even have the chance to produce and perform their original compositions with the support of mentors and industry organisations like The Push and Music Victoria.
Dean Ormston, Chief Executive of APRA AMCOS, hailed the investment as a testament to Victoria’s commitment to empowering young songwriters and creating exciting pathways for the next generation of global hitmakers.
“SongMakers has long been celebrated as a cornerstone in empowering young songwriters, providing them with essential skills and opportunities to explore their creativity,” said Ormston. “With this expanded program, Victorian students will not only be equipped with critical thinking, teamwork, and communication abilities but will also establish exciting pathways for the next generation of global hitmakers.
“Australian contemporary music is fast becoming the nation’s biggest cultural export and stands as a testament to our nation’s creative excellence on the global stage. Central to this success is the ingenuity and talent of our songwriters, whose intellectual property fuels Australia’s creative industries and drives economic growth. With this investment, Victoria solidifies its position as a trailblazer in music innovation.”
The initiative aims to bring students and teachers together with industry professionals, providing real-world collaborative songwriting experiences, technology processes involved in recording, and engagement with concepts around valuing and respecting intellectual property.
Since its inception in 2013, SongMakers has connected with close to 4,000 young people and their teachers at more than 300 high schools nationally, creating over 1,200 original songs at workshops.
Victorian schools interested in participating in the program can submit an Expression of Interest at the SongMakers website as it rolls out to more than 64 high schools across the state over the next two years.
