Apply: NATSIMO, Abbey Road Institute, Studios 301 scholarship

Deadline extended - EOIs open until 16 November 11:59PM AEDT.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music creators are encouraged to apply for the fully-paid scholarship for the CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music.

The opportunity is made possible through a partnership of NATSIMO, Abbey Road Institute Australia and Studios 301.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music creators are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest for a fully paid scholarship at Abbey Road Institute to undertake a CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music!

The package is valued at a total of $30,000, which includes a $25,000 scholarship from Abbey Road Institute Australia and a $5,000 study bursary from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Music Office and APRA AMCOS.

The opportunity is made possible through a partnership between NATSIMO, Abbey Road Institute and Studios 301, who are teaming up for a third year to offer the fully paid scholarship opportunity.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music creators from across the country are encouraged to apply for the one-year program. EOIs are open and will close on EXTENDED DEADLINE Thursday 16 November at 11:59pm AEDT.

Designed by industry for industry, the CUA60520 Advanced Diploma of Music course aims to build a music professional’s capability in music production and sound engineering so they can take their career to the next level. This music production course is founded upon over 85 years of experience at Abbey Road Studios, developing innovative recording techniques and training assistant engineers who have since become well respected sound engineers and producers in their own right.

Artist, producer and songwriter Blake Rhodes who performs as Mr Rhodes, is a Bundjalung man from Lismore, NSW and was the first recipient of the scholarship in 2022.

Dharawal artist and songwriter Aodhan was the second recipient of the scholarship in 2023.

“The NATSIMO team is excited to offer this scholarship in partnership with Abbey Road Institute and Studios 301 for a third year. This opportunity has allowed both Blake and Aodhan to increase their knowledge, networks and career opportunities in an area with limited representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

“We look forward to supporting the next recipient in completing the Advanced Diploma program increasing their skillsets and knowledge in one of the country’s best and largest recording studios at Studios 301, at one of the world’s most notable institutions - Abbey Road Institute” said Nathaniel Andrew, Education & Special Projects Manager, NATSIMO.

Aodhan said, “Studying at Abbey Road Institute has allowed me to work with and learn from some of the best engineers and producers in the country at the most iconic studio in Australia. The course covers everything from music theory, to how to treat acoustics in a room as well as learning how to use industry-grade studio equipment. This opportunity can definitely provide a huge leg up if you’re hoping to start and sustain a career in the music industry.”

"I'm absolutely thrilled to announce the launch of the NATSIMO scholarship for the third consecutive year! As we've witnessed through the incredible journey of 2021 recipient Blake, I couldn't be more excited to see Aodhan embark on his own musical journey" declared Ron Haryanto, the CEO of Abbey Road Institute Australia.

"Our primary mission is to equip recipients with the tools they need to not only excel as producers, artists, and creatives but to become true leaders within the Australian music community. It's an absolute pleasure and an honor to collaborate with NATSIMO once again, ensuring that these talented individuals have the opportunity to achieve their dreams," Haryanto emphasized.

The successful applicant will have access to industry-standard equipment and studios throughout their studies and be taught by experts, including multi-award-winning guest speakers.

In-person study will take place between Studios 301 and Abbey Road Institute's Sydney campus, with regular recording sessions at Studios 301, to ensure the participant has access to some of the best recording facilities in the world.

This scholarship provides a chance to learn and become part of a global network in the recording industry. Through access to broad networks consisting of sound engineers, music producers, artists and music business professionals, the scholarship recipient will gain insights into the breadth of the recording industry and use this to develop their personal career path.

On completion of their studies, the recipient will have the opportunity to visit Abbey Road Studios in London to attend the global graduation ceremony.

To submit an EOI, please visit this link.