Published 23 November, 2018

A passport to create international pathways for Victorian music businesses

The Victorian Music Development Office (VMDO), in partnership with the Australian Independent Record Labels Association (AIR) and Association of Artist Managers (AAM), will accept applications for the next Fast Track Fellowship program. Fast Track Fellowship is an initiative of the Victorian State Government.

Open to Victorian music artist managers and independent labels, the Fast Track Fellowship facilitates international professional development, relocates selected participants overseas and immerses them within music companies over a two month period.

VMDO General Manager, Bonnie Dalton, explained that the VMDO is committed to creating international pathways for Victorian music business professionals.

“Artist managers and independent labels support our music industry locally and internationally – they increase opportunities for artists and creating sustainable businesses for Victoria. The Fast Track Fellowship will enable significant skill development and experiences; and also build sustainable opportunities, networks and relationships within the international music business community,” said Dalton.

The Fast Track Fellowship program includes return flights, visas and insurance as well as financial support for accommodation, on ground logistics, per diems and registration fees for professional industry events.

In 2019, two Fast Track Fellowships will be selected by an independent industry-based advisory panel that includes representatives from VMDO, AIR, AAM and the recipients from the inaugural 2018 Fast Track Fellowship – music managers: Charlotte Abroms (Hear Hear Music) and Guy Blackman (Chapter Music); and label managers: Tom Fraser (Pieater) and Amy Chapman (Wantok Musik). The Fast Track Fellowship is an initiative of the Victorian State Government.

Sharing their experiences with other Victorian music businesses and peers, the 2018 fellowship recipients reported immediate increased business activity and outstanding career development for themselves and the artists they represent.

Tom Fraser from Pieater said “The Fast Track Fellowships program is so important as it supports the business brains behind the artists. It’s crucial that we continue to develop the talented, knowledgeable and connected people who work behind the scenes and can curate improved opportunities for all artists.”

The VMDO will announce the first Fast Track Fellowship recipient in partnership with AIR in January 2019.

Key dates for the Fast Track Fellowship with VMDO in partnership with AIR:

• Fri 23 Nov 2018 – Applications open at vmdo.com.au/fasttrackfellowship
• Thu 6 Dec 2018 – Applications close
• Jan 2019 – Announce recipient

Applications for the Fast Track Fellowship with VMDO in partnership with AAM will be open and accepted in early 2019.

For more information, and to apply, visit www.vmdo.com.au/fasttrackfellowship