Bank of Melbourne returns Music Bank initiative

PRESS RELEASE:

Recording at Sing Sing studios, a film clip by Oh Yeah Wow, and mentoring from the industry’s finest: it’s all on offer for the winner of this year’s Melbourne Music Bank competition. Off the back of an extremely successful campaign last year, Bank of Melbourne today announced the return of the community music initiative that gives aspiring artists a chance to break into the music industry.

Melbourne Music Bank calls on Victorian musicians and bands to submit an original song for a chance to win the ultimate kick-starter pack for a career in music. The winner will receive a toolkit for success, comprising two days of recording at Melbourne’s famous Sing Sing studios, a film clip by Oh Yeah Wow, album artwork, printed CDs and the chance of their winning song to feature in a Bank of Melbourne TV ad. This year the prize also includes the expertise of a dedicated A-team of the industry’s finest including management and mentoring by Chris Robinson, publicity by On The Map PR, radio plugging by Varrasso PR and gig bookings by 123 Agency.

Jac Phillips, Head of Brand & Marketing for Bank of Melbourne, said the bank was delighted to present Melbourne Music Bank for the third year. “Melbourne Music Bank is one of many ways that Bank of Melbourne is supporting the arts,” said Jac. “We’re dedicated to helping Victorians prosper and succeed, and we’re thrilled to be supporting local music makers. There’s a deep pool of musical talent right here in Victoria, and this competition is a great way to discover and foster up-and-coming artists.”

To be eligible, musicians must be from Victoria and submit an original song before August 23. Four finalists will be voted by the public (from a shortlist of 12 entrants) who will then perform live on stage on October 8 at Melbourne’s iconic Arts Centre’s State Theatre in front of a panel of industry experts who will choose the winner.

ARIA winner and Melbourne-based musician, Ella Hooper (Killing Heidi, The Verses, Spicks & Specks) returns as Melbourne Music Bank’s ambassador. “I'm excited to be back on board with Melbourne Music Bank this year. It's such a fun competition to be involved with and a fantastic opportunity for emerging artists to get a leg up,” enthuses Ella. “It's growing in all the right ways – the competition scope is broader and the prize package is huge, so I'm expecting to be blown away by the entries.”

Last year’s competition uncovered indie singer, Héloise. The folk songstress secured airtime for her winning song, This Is Home on community radio around the country and sold out her single launch show at The Workers Club. She also delighted fans with performances at Falls Festival and Melbourne City Mission’s Sleep At The G fundraiser.

To enter, musicians should submit their entry at www.bankofmelbourne.com.au/melbmusicbank before August 23.