‘Ones to watch’ announced for Be Hear Now

FIVE talented local music outfits have extra reason to make great tunes following their selection for this year’s Be Hear Now contemporary music program.

In recent days the City of Ballarat has announced the lucky musos and also the industry mentors who will guide them through this year’s tailored development journey culminating in the release of their new singles later this year.

Gordon-based The Darlings Family Trust along with Ballarat-based Backyard Utopia, Atomic Entourage, Oscar Perrett and Patlova have all been named.

They will all receive training and support to assist in the commercial release of a new single, supported by a team of industry professionals and specialised service providers.

Now in its sixth year, Be Hear Now continues to spotlight Ballarat’s ones to watch, providing emerging artists with the skills, connections and resources needed to build solid music careers.

The industry mentors include former frontwoman of acclaimed Australian indie band The Jezabels, Hayley Mary; guitarist and key creative force behind successful indie rock band DMA’s, Johnny Took; acclaimed screen composer and guitarist of Magic Dirt, Raul Sanchez; ARIA award-winning singer songwriter Montaigne (Jessica Cerro); and ARIA award-winning guitarist and songwriter Jeff Lang.

Each artist has been carefully paired with one of the industry mentors, ensuring a personalised and impactful development experience.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the program continues to play an important role in strengthening the region’s creative industries.

“Be Hear Now is a vital platform for emerging artists in our community,” Cr Hargreaves said.

“These talented musicians represent the future of Ballarat’s music scene and we’re proud to support them as they take the next steps in their careers.”

Over coming months the artists will undertake a customised development pathway including dedicated sessions with their industry-matched mentor, strategic planning for their single release, professional recording, mixing and mastering sessions, a professional photography session and distribution support for getting their music out there.

This year’s program is bolstered by new partnership with the Victorian Music Development Office, providing the musos masterclasses to help them succeed in an evolving music landscape.