Live and Local program aims to fortify Geelong’s live music scene

THE City of Greater Geelong will this month host a series of free industry development sessions for locals who work in the music industry.

The sessions, which will be delivered in partnership with the Live Music Office and Music Victoria, are aimed at strengthening Geelong’s music scene and upskilling the musicians and venue operators who work within it.

Chair of the city’s creativity and culture portfolio, Cr Melissa Cadwell, said the sessions were part of the ‘Live and Local’ program.

Launched in October, the initiative is designed to shine a light on the region’s unique mix of musical talent and deliver a combination of workshops and micro-music festivals to support their growth.

“Live and Local is designed to showcase and support local musicians in our region,” Cr Cadwell said.

“It’s a comprehensive capacity building program presented by the city in partnership with the Live Music Office and APRA AMCOS.”

On Wednesday, June 19, there will be a ‘Getting Your Act Together’ workshop, which will provide musicians with tips on how to set up their music practice, communicate with venues and negotiate.

It will feature guest speakers Ashleigh Hills from independently owned music company UNIFIED and Luke Hindson from Torquay Hotel and Barwon Heads Hotel.

It will be held at Customs House, at 57-59 Brougham Street Geelong, from 5.30 pm to 7.30pm.

The following week, on June 26, all live music venue operators in the municipality are invited to a roundtable discussion at Geelong’s civic precinct Wurriki Nyal between 10.30am and 1pm.

The roundtable will be an opportunity to talk with the city and Music Victoria about the current and future challenges facing live music venues, share insights and workshop possible solutions.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the industry development sessions were aimed at building capacity in the local music industry.

“Our artist sessions are a valuable opportunity for musicians to learn from experienced industry insiders and build their skills.

“The insights of venue operators at our upcoming roundtable will be integral to efforts aimed at growing the Geelong region’s live music scene.”

To register for the sessions, head to geelongaustralia.com.au