Billy Thorpe Scholarship opens for musicians

Emerging Queensland musicians have been urged to apply for the annual $10,000 Billy Thorpe Scholarship and take the next step in their careers.

Arts Minister Ian Walker said the scholarship, named in honour of the late Billy Thorpe, was for musicians at the start of a promising contemporary music career.

“The Billy Thorpe Scholarship offers career guidance and the opportunity to record with a local producer along with a cash component,” Mr Walker said.

“We want contemporary musicians who are ready to take the next step in shaping their future on a professional career path.”

Mr Walker said the scholarship would help musicians follow in Thorpe’s footsteps. The singer spent his formative years in Brisbane, leaving an enormous legacy to the Australian rock music scene in more than five decades of performing, writing and producing.

Past winners include Astrid and the Asteroids (2012), Sam Hales (2011), Andrew Redford (2010), Alan Boyle (2009) and Michael Gavriel (2008).

The scholarship will be delivered by QMusic, Queensland’s key music industry organisation.

QMusic Executive Officer Denise Foley said The Billy Thorpe Scholarship has had a great impact on the artists who have won previously.

“Andrew Redford was named the winner of the Telstra Road to Discovery Performer, while Sam Hales will release his new Jungle Giants album this year,” Ms Foley said.

“The Billy Thorpe Scholarship gives artists the opportunity to develop their craft and lay foundations for future success.  We look forward to seeing what talent is unearthed this year.”

Mr Walker said the Newman Government supported Queensland contemporary music through the Billy Thorpe Scholarship, the $25,000 annual Grant McLennan Memorial Fellowship (closing 28 June) and funding to QMusic and BIGSOUND, the signature industry event which is a national platform for contemporary music.

Applications are open now and close on 22 July 2013 with winners to be announced in October. For more information and guidelines go to www.arts.qld.gov.au

[ENDS] 19 June 2013
Media contact:     Alex Bernard     0417 252 563