Starting Ground workshop for First Nation musicians to debut in WA

First Nation music initiative Starting Ground is making its debut in West Australia.

The free program was set up to in 2015 by the NSW government to help indigenous musicians build their skills, promote their work, develop career pathways and access mainstream music markets.

The two-and-a-half day workshop will take place between April 30 and May 2 at Tjuma Pulka in Kalgoorlie.

The workshop is a collaboration between APRA AMCOS and WAM (West Australian Music), in partnership with Tjuma Pulka Aboriginal Media Corporation.

It is funded through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) Culture and The Arts (WA) Aboriginal Arts Program.

Coming to Kalgoorlie are songwriter, guitarist and producer Drew Goddard of Karnivool, songwriters Bradley Hall and Candice Lorrae (The Merindas), artist manager Hayley Ayres and music association WAM’s regional officer Nigel Bird.

APRA AMCOS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander national representative Michael Hutchings will facilitate the sessions, along with Debbie Carmody and Libby Carmody from Tjuma Pulka, who are hosting at their radio and music production studios.

“We’re thrilled to be working with WAM and Tjuma Pulka to expand the Starting Ground program to WA,” said Hutchings.

“Our aim is to give the region’s Aboriginal music makers a unique opportunity to learn from some of this country’s finest songwriters and connect with music industry professionals.

“The two-and-a-half days really gives artists a chance to not only gain valuable professional advice and skills but also the confidence to push their music into the future.”

Starting Ground mentor Candice Lorrae, who grew up in Darwin, said, “With 17 years experience in the music industry, I understand the limitation regional bands and artists have in terms of support, management and paid work.

“Starting Ground is very exciting because it gives regional artists the opportunity to network and seek advice from a wide range of professionals under one roof.”

To register or find out more, contact: Michael Hutchings, APRA AMCOS (02) 9935 7874 / mhutchings@apra.com.au or Debbie or Libby Carmody, Tjuma Pulka (08) 9091 3444 / ceo@tjuma963fm.com.au.