MusicNSW is delighted to announce the appointment of five regional-based team members. The regional MusicNSW team will work collaboratively to lead regional music development across the state, with Bathurst-based, Sophie Jones focusing across the Central West, Outback and West Darling regions.
Following a search that began in November 2022, five music professionals now join the MusicNSW team with a remit to deliver development opportunities and work to expand touring circuits across regional NSW. The newly-created roles have been made possible thanks to Create NSW following a landmark four-year funding commitment.
Sophie is a musician, mentor and music teacher who grew up in Tamworth NSW before moving to Bathurst to complete her B.A Communications (Theatre/Media). Sophie has been actively involved in the Bathurst community and surrounds through touring and performing with her band Smith & Jones, running community choirs and workshops, event management and bookings such as The End Festival in Hill End and the Local Emerging Artists Program (as part of the Inland Sea of Sound Festival), running her own business teaching guitar and singing.
Emily Collins, MusicNSW Managing Director said: “We are so excited to have these new team members to strengthen all things music in the regions. The regional music community has so much rich talent and deserves all the support that the big cities are exposed to. The regional music professionals selected to represent their communities will deliver on-the-ground support to provide regionally-driven professional development, grant support, and touring resources, culminating each year with five tours across regional NSW.”
John Graham, NSW Minister for Arts, Night Time Economy and Music, said: “MusicNSW has been leading nationally on regional music development, and the NSW Government is proud to fund these new roles. MusicNSW’s newly appointed regional team will help artists hit the road, build regional music networks and expand NSW’s profile as an ideal destination for regional touring.”
Dr Tracey Callinan, CEO, Regional Arts NSW, said: “These new positions are crucial for the development of the music industry in regional NSW. We welcome MusicNSW’s strategic approach to embedding support to ensure that our regional musicians, venues and tech staff are able to thrive.”
Next Wednesday, Sophie Jones and the regional team are inviting all NSW regional music industry professionals to l come together for a virtual interactive session, to meet the team, talk about live music across the regions and make connections to bring the industry closer and open up career pathways. This digital event is open to artists, venues, agents, media and more, and will feature all five new hires and Managing Director Emily Collins. The event is supported by MusicNSW core funding partners Create NSW and APRA AMCOS. Details below and via the link:
Sound Advice: Introducing the Regional Team 2pm, Wednesday, 31 May 2022
