Applications now open for the Bondi WAVE youth band song-writing program

Sydney’s much-loved youth band program Bondi WAVE returns to Bondi Pavilion Music Studios from 6 May to 9 August this year for students wanting to learn how to write and arrange original music.

Bondi WAVE has been an incubator for homegrown musical talent for more than 30 years and has helped propel the careers of some of Australia’s best new artists including Ilan Kidron, Martha Marlow, Kelly Sutherland from Architecture in Helsinki and Triple J Hottest 100 alumni, The Tenants.

Waverley Council runs the 12-week program where students are mentored by a rotating roster of industry professionals including drummer Jim Elliot from The Cruel Sea, Rose Fitzgerald from I Know Leopard, Ben Fink from The Whitlams and Brendan Gallagher from Karma County.

The program includes a professional recording in the Bondi Pavilion Music Studios and culminates in a final concert in the Bondi Pavilion Theatre, which recently hosted Katie Noonan and Elixir and cabaret artist Queenie van de Zandt’s Joni Mitchell tribute.

Mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos, said Bondi WAVE gives young artists a taste of the music industry and helps take their talents to the next level.

“Whether you are new to music or an experienced player, the Bondi WAVE program is a great introduction to playing in a band and creating original music,” Mayor Masselos said.

With such accomplished alumni providing inspiration, I am sure we will see more ‘big names’ emerge from the Bindi WAVE program”.

Chris Bendall, Bondi Pavilion Artistic Director, said Bondi WAVE continues to cultivate and inspire a new generation of musicians.

“Bondi WAVE is a unique opportunity for people as young as 12 to develop their practical skills and see where it takes them,” Chris said.

“Our Bondi WAVE participants get so much out of being in our recording studio which is where the magic happens.”

Bondi WAVE is open to all high school students and senior primary school students across Sydney, who sing or play an instrument, are interested in joining a band or are currently in one.

Applications for Bondi WAVE close Friday 19 April 2024. Click here for more information or to apply. The program costs $350 and Creative Kids vouchers are accepted.

For inquiries, contact: 9083 8434.

-ENDS-

Media inquiries: media@waverley.nsw.gov.au or 0416 075 532.