In recent months, there has been significant activity at WAM. WA music has taken a leading role in the national Australian Music Industry Network discussions. These dialogues are centred on advocating for our WA artists and industry professionals, emphasising our unique strengths, identifying gaps in national funding opportunities, and pinpointing areas for professional development. The discussions will continue over the next few months with the aim of developing a unified national approach to tackle these issues.
The team have been diligently working behind the scenes to bring together a regional gathering of the WAM Regional Round Table. We are delighted to announce that WAM has successfully secured funding for this event, scheduled to be held in Port Hedland this June. A heartfelt thank you goes to the Town of Port Hedland and BHP for their generous support, enabling us to make this opportunity available to our regional participants.
Song of the Year has now closed for entries for another year and thank you to everyone who entered the 2024 Song of the Year competition. This year, we received over 1050 entries, showcasing the depth and diversity of talent within our community. Each submission, whether from emerging artists or established professionals, represents a unique expression of artistry and celebrates the universal language of music. As we move into the judging phase, we wish the best of luck to every entrant and look forward to celebrating with nominees in mid-June 2024.
However, amidst our celebration, we must acknowledge the challenges facing our music industry. The ongoing cancellation of music festivals is deeply concerning. Our thoughts are with organisers, artists, and fans affected by these cancellations. They serve as a stark reminder of the industry’s fragility and the necessity for resilience in the face of adversity.
Once again, thank you for all your passion, creativity, and support. Together, we are shaping the future of the music industry and paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant musical landscape.
Livia Carré
Executive Director
