Music Writer’s Lab to Debut at BIGSOUND

A call has gone out to emerging music journalists to apply for a new initiative called the Music Writer’s Lab, which will debut at this year’s BIGSOUND.

The brainchild of the Northern Territory’s peak music association MusicNT and the Australia Council for the Arts, the Lab is designed “to support a fresh culture of critical review and music journalism” in the national music sector.

It’s something long overdue, as the advent of online reviews has led to a drift towards shorter quickly-consumed analysis.

The idea of the Lab is to revive interest and support at the forefront of the music industry for the value of critical writing and strong partnerships.

It also encourages a community of music journalists to connect and uplift one another’s work and find industry backing through financial and distribution support.

The Music Writer’s Lab brings together established and emerging music and culture writers for a day of mentoring and creative sessions.

The mentors for the 2022 Lab are Marcus Teague (Mess+Noise, The Vine), Tait McGregor (Tone Deaf, The AU Review) and Rhianna Patrick (triple j, Message Stick, Speaking Out).

Throughout the day, they will engage, share knowledge and, hopefully, encourage an environment of healthy critical discourse and expression as it pertains to music journalism.

Young music scribes are encouraged to apply by August 9.

Successful applicants will be notified by August 15.

Participants will action what they learned from their mentors during BIGSOUND week.

The idea of a development series such as this has been in the works for some time.

“We know that music writers play an essential role in the discovery of Australian music, helping to connect artists with audiences, while the rigour of critical discourse allows artists and audiences to contextualise and consider new ways to consider their art,” Australia Council Head of Music Kirsty Rivers said.

“We are delighted to support the Australian writing and writers through this pilot project.”

MusicNT Executive Director Mark Smith adds: “We are excited to launch this new initiative fostering music writing and writers from across the country.

“Now, more than ever critical discourse within and about the national music sector is vital in highlighting new voices, new music and opening pathways for audiences to discover their next favourite act.”