SongMakers NSW seeking Expressions of Interest for 2027

Get SongMakers to your school in 2027!

EOIs open for 2-day workshops in high schools across NSW, with mentors including DOBBY, KLP and more 

EOIs close 20 September 

Apply now 

Expressions of Interest are now open to NSW high schools to apply to be part of the SongMakers program in 2027. Apply now to be one of our nationally-selected schools. 

Supported by APRA AMCOS and  Sound NSW , the SongMakers School Program is a two-day workshop that gives high school students with a passion for songwriting the chance to co-write and record original music with professional industry mentors. 
 
In 2027, participants will be mentored by acclaimed Australian songwriters and producers DOBBY, KLP, Chloe Dadd, Lily Richardson (Clews), Syd Green, Audius Mtawarira and more. 
 
“I believe wholeheartedly in SongMakers,” says DOBBY, ARIA-award winning artist, composer and SongMakers Mentor. “The amount of inspiration and in-depth songwriting that happens in just two days is really astounding; students undergo the songwriting process from the conception of an idea, right through to recording the song. It’s a great initiative. I wish I had as a student at their age!” 

Focusing on years 10 – 12, the program gives passionate young people behind-the-scenes insights into the music industry from working professionals. Whilst learning technical skills like production and recording, participants also develop skills such as collaboration and teamwork, working to deadlines, and exploring outside of their comfort zone in a supported, inclusive environment.  
 
Jamie Mitchell, from Newcastle’s Callaghan College, had SongMakers visit his school earlier this year:  “The APRA AMCOS SongMakers program has not only provided my students the opportunity to work with industry leaders to produce original songs, they've also gained insights into the song making process, copyright legislation and their rights as artists. They have developed skills in time management, collaboration, communication and built confidence. The program also offers teachers valuable skills in composition and a range of teaching resources for the classroom. 
 
Not in NSW? Expressions of interest for the national SongMakers Program will be opening in October. Schools can apply to host the program any time in 2027.  
 
Since launching in 2013, the national SongMakers program has worked with over 6,000 young people and their teachers at more than 350 high schools, creating more than 1,500 original songs. 
 
 Alumni from the SongMakers program include Chelsea Warner, Chloe Dadd, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Taka Perry and Tia Gostelow. 

Watch what happens at a SongMakers. 

Applications are open now until 20 September 2026.