Deadlines fast approaching for entries to the Telstra Road to Discovery 2011 talent development program

Independent music artists from New South Wales have until 9 October to enter the Telstra Road to Discovery talent development program for a chance to showcase their music to the nation and make serious connections in the Australian music industry.

Up to six local musicians will be chosen to perform at the Windsor heat of the Telstra Road to Discovery and will compete for a tailor made 12-month mentorship package which includes the ultimate prize of performing in “global music city” Nashville USA.

The Windsor heat of the Telstra Road to Discovery will be held as part of the Sydney Blues and Roots Festival from 8:00pm on Thursday 27 October featuring performances by Marshall and the Fro and current 2011 Telstra Road winners Dave Garnham and Harry Hookey.

Enter via www.telstra.com/trtd – entries close at midnight on Sunday 9 October.

The winning heat performer will receive a return trip to Sydney to take part in the next stage of the program – Boot Camp, a three day music mentoring workshop in December where they learn about all facets of the industry – from performance through to song construction, publishing, touring and more.

Telstra Road to Discovery Ambassadors, The McClymonts, said Boot Camp gave aspiring musicians a head start by introducing them to the right people and teaching them about the pitfalls of the industry.

“Meeting the right people and getting the right advice is the hardest thing to achieve when you’re first starting out in the music industry. Boot Camp puts musicians in touch with established artists and experienced industry contacts; giving them the tools to take their career to the next level,” said Brooke McClymont.

Local songwriters have until 16 October this year before entries close nationally in the songwriting category.

The overall winners in both the performance and songwriting categories will each receive a return trip to Nashville and attendance at the world-renowned Americana Festival, as part of a 12-month mentorship package.

Tailored to suit each winner’s musical aspirations, the prize package includes connection with a network of music industry professionals and may include a studio recording session, domestic and international gigs, co-writing appointments, digital marketing, video production and more.

For more details on how to enter visit www.telstra.com/trtd