Bank of Melbourne has announced the return of Melbourne Music Bank, the community music initiative helping aspiring artists break into the music industry. Hot on the heels of last year’s record-breaking program, this year’s $60,000 prize pool is the perfect opportunity for Victorian musicians and bands to kick start their career.
The winner of 2016 Melbourne Music Bank will receive the ultimate toolkit for success. The prize comprises four days of recording at Melbourne’s The Studios In The City to record, mix and master an EP, two film clips, album artwork, printed CDs, styling, media training, and a photoshoot for the release. The winner also receives management and mentoring by Matt O’Connor, publicity by On The Map PR, radio plugging by Varrasso PR and gig bookings by 123 Agency, as well as the opportunity to tour the east coast of Australia, and perform at the renowned festival, Beyond The Valley.
Jac Phillips, Head of Brand & Marketing for Bank of Melbourne, said the bank was delighted to present Melbourne Music Bank for the fourth year, “This competition is one of the many ways Bank of Melbourne is supporting the arts and it’s getting bigger and better every year. Last year’s Melbourne Music Bank was a runaway success, with a record number of entrants and votes. We’re incredibly proud of the success of our 2014 winner, Heloise and 2015 winner, Jade Alice. Bank of Melbourne is here to help Victorians make it, and this competition is a great way to kick start the career of up-and-coming musicians.”
Australian Musician was pleased to have been able to present 2014 winner Heloise at our recent 2016 Melbourne Guitar Show, where she performed alongside other accomplished female singer songwriters in our Fretted Femmes in Song session. “It’s the first time I’ve seen Heloise perform since her Melbourne Music Bank win and she has developed into such a talented and confident singer, songwriter and performer. Although she clearly showed a lot of promise back in 2014, the coaching and mentoring she received as part of her Melbourne Music Bank win would certainly have contributed to the stage presence she now radiates,” said Australian Musician editor Greg Phillips.
To be eligible for the Melbourne Music Bank prize, musicians must be from Victoria and submit an original song by 5pm on 27 August. The public will choose 4 finalists from a shortlist of 12. The winner will be selected after a live performance by the finalists in front of a panel of industry experts at Arts Centre Melbourne’s Hamer Hall on 25 October 2016.
ARIA winner and Melbourne-based musician, Ella Hooper (Killing Heidi, The Verses, Spicks & Specks) returns as Melbourne Music Bank ambassador. “I’m thrilled to be involved with the brilliant Melbourne Music Bank again. This program is really snow-balling! Last year we saw some downright incredible entries. The wealth of talent in this city never fails to impress and inspire me,” enthuses Hooper. “I can’t wait to see what this year’s comp turns up and to work with the entrants all the way through to finals and beyond, finishing up with a gorgeous gig at a dream venue!”
Last year’s competition uncovered pop sensation, Jade Alice. The folk pop songstress secured airtime for her winning song Kick Drum on community radio around the country and sold out her single launch show at The Shebeen Bandroom. She has appeared on children’s television channel ABC3, and garnered support and praise from the likes of Triple J Unearthed and Hilly Dilly.
To enter, musicians should submit their entry at http://www.bankofmelbourne.com.au/melbmusicbank by 5pm, Saturday 27 August 2016.