Applications open for SongMakers Academy 2025
SongMakers Academy to take place over 3 days, 30 September – 2 October in Melbourne’s premiere recording studios
Previous SongMakers participants based in Victoria aged 16-19 encouraged to apply
Applications open now and close 24 August
Applications are open for 2025's SongMakers Academy: a free, three-day songwriting intensive in Melbourne during the spring school holidays.
16 talented young songwriters from across the state will have the opportunity to write, produce and record three original songs at professional recording studios in Melbourne’s inner north, including Rolling Stock Recording Rooms, Carriage Studio and Red Door Sounds.
The program fosters the skills of creative collaboration and problem-solving, while familiarising participants with the dynamics of professional recording studios. Any 16 to 19-year-old who participated in a Victorian SongMakers school or holiday program over 2024 or 2025 is encouraged to apply. Participants will be selected based on their enthusiasm to develop new skills and knowledge.
Returning as SongMakers Academy mentors will be Pip Norman, Haiku Hands’ Beatrice Lewis, Jackson Phelan, Yeo and Hayden Lauersen. Joining afresh as a mentor will be 2023 APRA Professional Development Award winner Elizabeth M. Drummond!
Mentor Beatrice Lewis: “The SongMakers Academy was one of the most turbo-charged creative melting pots I’ve ever been part of. Some of the state’s most exciting emerging musicians came together to write and record over just a few days. It felt like I was witnessing the future of Australian music unfold — and it was mind-blowing. I can’t wait to see what happens this year!’
From a 2024 SongMakers Academy participant: “I managed to climb out of my shell and experiment with new genres and sounds I never would have considered beforehand. This has now led me to new paths in my music career. I am forever grateful for the experience!!”
Applications are open now and close Sunday 24 August.
Eligibility:
If you took part in a SongMakers workshop in 2024 or 2025, you are eligible to apply
- If you took part in a Victorian SongMakers workshop in 2024 or 2025
- 16 – 19 years old
- Unfortunately, participants from SongMakers Academy 2024 are ineligible to apply
30 September – 2 October 2025
Various recording studios in Collingwood, Melbourne
9am – 4:30pm AEST daily
Applications close Sunday 24 August
This program is made possible with the support of APRA AMCOS and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria and the Community Support Fund.
