High notes for homegrown music program

Margaret River HEART has successfully entrepreneured five Homegrown@HEART performances in 2021, where more than 50 local musicians were paid to perform alongside professional touring artists on the venue’s main stage.

Funded by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries’ (DGLSCI) Regional Arts and Cultural Investment Program (RACIP) ‘In the House’ grant, the initiative developed as a response to support the creative industries during COVID-19 and keep West Australian artists on stage despite pandemic related border closures.

Margaret River HEART General Manager Nicky Hansen said the ‘homegrown’ music program received glowing feedback from both patrons and performers, with artists expressing their appreciation for the opportunity to perform, develop skills and connect with the community.

“Last month, our free musical workshops were a sell-out, with 30 attendees signing up for the collaborative masterclass with world-class ensemble Australian Baroque,” Hansen said.

“We also ran an extraordinary session where parents were able to access a free recital with their babes in arms, exposing their newborns to classical music.”

Homegrown performer Rochelle D’elia said she was thrilled to sing on stage with The Chorale Sea Choir and Aria nominated and WAMAward winning artist Mama Kin in July for the program’s first folk concert, and as part of this year’s Cabin Fever Festival.

“I just love everything the HEART is doing to create a great community vibe,” Rochelle said.

With five successful performances and 12 free community workshops, the third and final Homegrown outing for 2021 will feature a line-up of local classical musicians on November 19. Tickets are on sale now.

Local musicians interested in performing at the 2022 Homegrown@HEART Music Program are invited to complete the following survey to be considered for a spot.

Applicants can be either emerging or established in their craft and all applications are welcomed. Apply here to become a the next Homegrown@HEART performer. 

To purchase tickets or for more information please visit margaretriverheart.com.au, email [email protected] or call the Box Office on 08 9780 5294, Monday to Friday anytime between 10am and 4pm.