Write songs that make the whole world sing
For all those budding songwriters out there, an exciting new music scholarship is available, in conjunction with a national songwriting competition.
Christchurch-based SOLE Music Academy’s competition is now open to solo songwriters of any genre, aged 15 years and up, from across New Zealand.
Academy founder Sacha Vee says the competition is about discovering and cultivating emerging talent nationwide, and will be judged by world class artists, including himself, Sarena Close (Mousey), and Will McGillivray (Goodwill, nomad).
Entries close 1 December and the winner will be announced on 10 December 2024. The prize package includes professionally producing, mixing, and mastering the winner’s single, plus a one-on-one artist development session to guide them through the release process and create a release strategy. Two runners up will also be chosen.
Previous winner Jaz Paterson from Geraldine has gone on to excel in her music career, completing SOLE’s Artist Release Programme and receiving more than $35k from NZ On Air Funding.
The academy has also announced a new scholarship for its 2025 Artist Development Programme, to be awarded to an aspiring artist aged 16+, providing financial support towards its comprehensive one-year specialised programme. Specifically designed for skilled singers, songwriters, producers, and bands, this programme helps artists build their unique identity, image, and sound. Participants have the opportunity to create original music, elevate their performance skills, and gain professional-level knowledge, networks, and experience in the music industry.
