$7,500 Josh Pyke Partnership returns in 2021

The annual Josh Pyke partnership has announced its return in 2021, with applications open from today.

Now in its seventh year, the partnership offers one emerging musician a $7,500 grant to kickstart their career. The recipient will also receive mentoring from Pyke, Wonderlick Entertainment’s Gregg Donovan and Select Music’s Stephen Wade. The grant is presented in partnership with APRA AMCOS.

“2020 was devastating to the arts, and this year will inevitably throw some curveballs our way, but with the help of APRA AMCOS I’ll be giving an emerging artist a leg up,” Pyke said.

“I feel like it’s more important than ever to do what we can in the arts community to support each other in what we hope is a period of recovery for our sector. I’m looking forward to hearing some new music.”

Artists need to be unsigned to a label or publishing company to be eligible, and must submit samples of their work in addition to a concise business plan.

APRA head of member services Jana Gibson said: “Once again, we are proud to sponsor the Josh Pyke Partnership. As the roster of impressive recipients grow, it is even more evident that Josh and his team’s mentoring and guidance makes a real impact on Australian artists’ careers.”

Last year’s winner was Melbourne artist Bec Sykes, whose song ‘Edithvale’ won over the judging panel. Previous winners include Angie McMahon, Alex Lahey and Gordi.

Applications close at 5pm AEDT on March 26. The winner will be announced a few months later in early June.