The second annual Vanda & Young songwriting contest has opened giving Aussie songwriters two months to submit their songs.
The winner this year will receive a $50,000 prize package including a trip to the UK, a songwriting session, equipment, cash and tickets to the APRA Awards.
The judging panel includes Rai Thistlewayte (Thirsty Merc), Jenny Morris, Kate Miller-Heidke, Les Gock (Hush), Cath Haridy (Eskimo Joe manager) and John Watson (Cold Chisel, Silverchair).
Last year, Megan Washington won the award for her song ‘How To Tame Lions’. “I am the last person to turn creating music into a competition, but the wonderful thing about this whole thing is the amazing support and profile it brings to Nordoff-Robbins, A really great charity - with music therapy at its heart - the cost of entry alone is worth it just to offer support to that organisation. Not to mention that right now I am on a writing trip in the US courtesy of prizes from the many sponsors involved in last year’s competition. The Vanda & Young Songwriting Competition can make a big difference to both the artists who are lucky enough to win, and the beneficiaries of Nordoff-Robbins. So it's win-win,” she said.
Last year’s contest raised over $130,000 for the charity.
“The donation from the Vanda & Young Songwriting Competition will ensure the continuation of vital programs provided by Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia. From early intervention in disability and children ‘at risk’ to music therapy for healthy ageing, this support will bring increased engagement and quality of life through the joy, power and connection of music to countless needy people, young and old, and to their families, thereby transforming lives. Nordoff-Robbins is grateful to the competition for this valuable contribution and to APRA for its ongoing relationship with us,” said Jillian Ritherson on Nordoff-Robbins Music Therapy Australia.
ENTER ONLINE
Entry is via the website at www.vandayoungsongcomp.com and the key dates to note are as follows:
- Applications open – March 31
- Applications close – May 31
- Top 12 Shortlist Announcement – July 4
- Final Winner Announcement – July 15
VIDEO: Washington, the Undercover interview:
