Music’s top prize

MUSICIANS from across the City of Casey have a few days left for their chance to showcase their music to the nation.
Up to six individual musicians will be chosen to perform at the Melbourne heat of the Telstra Road to Discovery competition, and they will go on to compete for a year-long mentorship package, which includes the ultimate prize of performing in Nashville.
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.
Musicians can enter via www.telstra.com/trtd and entries close at midnight on Sunday 24 July.
The Melbourne heat of the Telstra Road to Discovery will be held at Melbourne University, North Court, cornerr Elgin and Swanston streets from 12.30pm on Tuesday 16 August.
The event will feature performances by local Melbourne musicians Harry Hookey who was the 2011 performer category winner and Gena Rose Bruce, who was the 2011 finalist.
Local songwriters have until 16 October 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.