Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Muso Support Program Launches In SA

Adelaide-based arts organisation Nexus Arts has announced that it is joining with the Centre For Aboriginal Music Studies (CASM) to deliver an Arts SA-funded music development program to help give a leg-up to budding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) musicians.

The ATSI Contemporary Musician Program's explicit aim is “to provide individual pathway opportunities and support” for fledgling SA-based ATSI musos who are able to demonstrate their suitability for enrolment through an existing body of original work.

The program will aid participants in their creative development through providing assistance in the gestation of timelines, festival applications, press-pack creation, accessing funding opportunties and professional networking assistance, with the potential for songwriting, arrangement and technical mentorships or tuition also on the table.

The 10-month-long program will sport workshops courtesy of several leading artists, managers, promoters and industry personalities, and select participants will have the chance to score some one-on-one (or small-group) time with such guests as such opportunities become feasible.

Applications for attendance during the free program close at 5pm on Monday, July 7. The 2014 ATSI Contemporary Musician Program will run from August until June next year.

Artists wishing to apply should send a brief (max. 200-word) bio along with: a one-page summary of their musical goals and the value of attending the program; a CV with details of their education, musical background and experience, and highlights to date; a maximum of 10 minutes of recorded work in CD or digital (max. three per applicant) format; and names and contact details of a least two relevant referees.

Applications are to be addressed to Ross McHenry, and sent to events@nexus.asn.au, with the subject line ATSI Contemporary Musician Program.

Click here for in-depth information about applicant selection processes and the event.