Mentoring program opens for local musicians

LOCAL musicians will have the opportunity to take the next steps in their music career thanks to an exciting mentoring program arriving in Geelong for the very first time.

Applications have opened for the tenth official GRID Series (Grass Roots Indie Development) artist development program.

The initiative aims to empower emerging artists who live outside inner-city music hubs and give them the opportunity to hone their creative and professional skills

The GRID Series provides one-on-one mentoring with an industry mentor, collaboration with a producer to create a new track, recording sessions, live performance opportunities and the creation of an artist documentary.

Four local solo artists and/or bands who write their own music will be selected for the curated program.

Past program participants Jacki Tut and Australian band, Manorism said the GRID Series was a fantastic opportunity to develop new skills and meet new people.

“It’s such a warming feeling to have people see something in you that sometimes you don’t even see yourself, and for them to not just recognise but nurture that and guide us through the ins and outs of an industry that is so hard to navigate,” Ms Tut said.

“I think for us to learn from the industry connections and learn about how to make our music really get out there…that was huge for us,” Manorism added.

Award winning songwriter and producer Joel Ma “Joelistics” (Haiku Hands, Moju), ARIA nominated engineer, songwriter and producer Becki Whitton, acclaimed producer Ariel Blum (NIASHA, St.Ives), music festival programmer Rich Moffat (Groovin’ the Moo, Falls Festival, Splendour in the Grass), and director of Broken Leg PR, Monique Matosic are among this year’s team of producers and mentors.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said this was an unmissable opportunity for local musicians.

“GRID Series is a chance to grow and come alive with support from experienced industry professionals who know the ins and outs of song development, performing and how to break into a tough industry.

“Council is thrilled to join Creative Victoria in supporting a program that creates new pathways for local singers and bands who have diverse stories to share.”

The program will start on October 25 and extend until March 2024.

Musicians who are aged 17 years and over and are available on all key dates listed on the application form are eligible.

Applications can be submitted to gridseries.com.au before Monday 2 October.

The GRID Series team are available to assist musicians needing assistance in submitting their application.