The Regional Accelerator Music Program (RAMP) has reached Murray Bridge with an aim to increase live music activity across regional South Australia.
Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni, launched today’s roundtable event by outlining the region’s strong potential for growth in the creative industries.
“Murray Bridge is no stranger to celebrating live music, whether that’s through hosting musicians in the local town hall or celebrating local acts in pubs, cafes and even the public library,” he said.
“We only have to look to nearby Langhorne Creek and the resounding success of the Handpicked Festival as an example of what live music events can bring to a region’s residents, businesses and economy.
“While Adelaide holds the designation as a UNESCO City of Music, this honour is a recognition of the music activity that occurs right across the state.
“The music industry is already a significant contributor to the state’s economy, delivering around $375 million a year and employing 6,300 South Australians.”
After food and wine, live music is the biggest tourism drawcard for South Australia’s regions.
“The Marshall Liberal Government developed RAMP to ensure our regions are reaping the cultural and economic benefits of live music in South Australia, through a collaborative effort with Regional Development Australia, councils, music professionals and local stakeholders,” Minister Pisoni said.
“We’re hosting Regional Music Discovery Roundtables and workshops with an aim of boosting the number of live music events by 10 percent in our regions by identifying any challenges facing the local music industry and discussing practical ways to forge viable music careers in the region.
“RAMP is just one of several Marshall Liberal Government initiatives available to assist South Australians who are keen to pursue a career in music, with extra funding committed to the Live Music Fund and various Contemporary Music grants.”
The next iteration of RAMP will be professional development workshops for local industry over the next few months.
For more information on RAMP, contact Ivor Hay at the Department for Innovation and Skills on 8429 3233 or visit the Music Development Office website.
