News May 28, 2018

Songwriters share insight during Reconciliation Week

APRA AMCOS is presenting a series of free talks by songwriters such as Emily Wurramara, Kutcha Edwards and Miranda Garling to talk about compelling songwriting as part of Reconciliation Week events.

The format of the Songwriter Speaks series gives songwriters a forum to discuss and demonstrate their craft and tell the stories behind the music, as well as answer audience questions.

The Reconciliation Week events are programmed by APRA AMCOS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander National Office and the national writer services team.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representative Michael Hutchings said: “The songwriters involved all have very different stories to tell and experiences to speak to. The events offer a unique opportunity to see and hear how the songwriters develop and nurture their craft.”

In recent weeks, APRA AMCOS has announced four new Ambassadors of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander background, a role that entails promoting the importance of music creators’ rights and being consulted on important member issues.

The new appointees are: Cairns-based soul singer and X-Factor alum Rochelle Pitt; Adelaide singer-songwriter Nancy Bates, who has toured extensively with Archie Roach; Melbourne hip-hop and jazz artist Lady Lash; and from the remote NT community of Marlinja, Eleanor Dixon, who performs in family band Rayella and acclaimed all-female group Kardajala Kirradara.

Ahead of Songwriter Speaks, Emily Nicol, presenter and producer at Koori Radio 93.7FM, has curated a special playlist entitled We Are First Nations, showcasing the music of the speakers, the new ambassadors and more.