Big names and ideas showcased at BIGSOUND

5 Sep 2018

BIGSOUND 2018, Australia’s largest gathering for the contemporary music industry, is bringing together thought-leaders, delegates and artists from across the globe.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said the annual BIGSOUND, presented by QMusic, was the go-to experience on Australia’s music calendar, supported by Queensland Government investment.

“This unique four-day event, now in its 17th year, attracts thousands of musicians, music industry professionals and music lovers from across the country,” Minister Enoch said.

“BIGSOUND is an exceptional opportunity to showcase local songwriters. Over the years it has influenced multiple Queensland musicians, helping take their careers to the next level.

“Rising Brisbane songwriter Hatchie, who performed at BIGSOUND 2017, has spent the past 12 months touring internationally and signing with record labels in the UK, US and Australia.

“More than 150 artists and acts will play live in front of labels, publishers, agents, festival bookers and other industry heavyweights with the chance to later sign deals, tour, and perform around the world,” Minister Enoch said.

BIGSOUND 2018 features an expanded program with hands-on opportunities for delegates to make music discoveries, connect with market leaders and potential business partners, and push the boundaries of live music.

“BIGSOUND 2018 will include new forum sessions, diverse speakers, insider workshops, and a strong focus on First Nations people in the music industry,” Minister Enoch said.

“In a BIGSOUND first, QMusic joined forces with BEMAC for three emerging Brisbane musicians from South Sudanese refugee backgrounds to attend this year’s event, network and explore new opportunities.

“Events such as BIGSOUND are crucial in driving Queensland’s tourism economy, promoting Queensland’s destinations, supporting employment, celebrating Queensland’s vibrant contemporary music scene, and showcasing Brisbane as an arts and cultural events hub,” Minister Enoch said.

Minister Enoch also encouraged established Queensland songwriters to apply for the $25,000 Grant McLennan Fellowship 2018, jointly funded by the Queensland Government, through Arts Queensland, and APRA AMCOS and administered by QMusic.

“This is a chance for songwriters to focus on their craft and follow in the footsteps of the late Grant McLennan, Queensland singer-songwriter and co-founder of The Go-Betweens,” she said.

Applications close on 17 September, with the winners to be announced in December 2018. For Grant McLennan Fellowship submissions, visit www.qmusic.com.au

For BIGSOUND 2018 information, visit www.bigsound.org.au