Local musicians have the chance to work with nationally recognised artists in a youth mentorship program at the Bendigo Autumn Music Festival next year.
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The Cat Empire’s Harry James Angus, Saskwatch’s Nkechi Anele and Liam McGorry, vocalist Thando, songwriter Skyscraper Stan and Lamine Sonko of Lamine Sonko and The African Intelligence will offer guidance to the young artists selected for the program.
Applications are open for artists under the age of 19. Categories for mentorship hopefuls include band, vocal, jazz and blues, under 15, and songwriter.
BAM Festival general manager Jesse Lubitz said mentoring programs were becoming an important part of many musical festivals.
“They're really important and have been well received at the existing festivals we work on,” he said.
“We have seen some great results for mentors and mentees. One of the main things we try to focus on is keeping (advice) practical. It’s very hands-on advice from the mentors.
“It’s performance-based information that makes sure the kids taking part can feel comfortable when they perform as well as giving them real opportunity to play at a festival in real gig conditions.
“It will benefit up-and-coming performers to be on a bill with a lot of national and international artists.”
Mr Lubitz said the mentorship program was open to any level of musician under the age of 19.
“It’s a very open program. (Applicants) would need to have some songs and a level of being ready (to perform on stage),” he said.
“The mentors we have chosen are people we feel have something to share. They are extremely experienced performers.
“We are hoping to get as many applications as possible from as wide a group as possible.”
Film and television music supervisor Norman Parkhill will judge the applications and is excited for the potential for young artists in the Goldfields region.
“This inspiring initiative gives emerging artists the opportunity to play alongside world-class international and local acts,” he said.
“BAM is an extraordinary international music and arts festival, and its youth mentorship program opens doors for young artists to learn first-hand from some of its best acts.”
Log on to www.bendigoautumnmusic.com for more information or to apply for the youth Mentorship Program. Applications are open until March 31.
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