Bello Winter Music organisers are thrilled to announce the winners of the fourth Youth Mentorship Program, where emerging artists are mentored by established artists on the festival bill.
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“It was such a hard decision with applicants coming from far and wide – Sydney, Katoomba, Melbourne, Brisbane - and all around beautiful Bellingen!” said one of the judges Nino Haggith, General Manager for Bello Winter Music’s sister festival, Mullum Music Festival.
“I think a lot will be gained from the mentor/artist pairings we have allocated this year and both parties will thoroughly enjoy and cherish the friendships and artistic journeys about to take place.”
Winners of the Band category are Coffs Coast rockers The Fingerz who have a raw sound with impressive lyrics for such a young band (14-16 years) who cite Nirvana, Silverchair, Hockey Dad and Violent Soho as influences. They have recently released a crunchy, driving single ‘Wet Weather’ and are currently working on their first EP.
The Fingerz will be mentored by Tony Rowley of Titan Sky, who said "I am so stoked to be a part of the journey for Australia's next generation of young musicians. I saw these guys live earlier this year, and they brought the house down. Up and up we go with The Fingerz!"
Winner of the Singer Songwriter category is 16-year-old Bellingen songstress Gemma Mcauley, who will be mentored by Ash Bell (Starboard Canons). Gemma grew up on a staple fare of 60s rock, especially The Beatles, and plays guitar, drums and cello.
21 year-old Chelle has scored a spot in the Vocal category with mentor Sal Kimber (Sal Kimber & The Rollin’ Wheel). Chelle plays contemporary folk music with influences of alt rock, jazz and blues. Having spent her young life travelling across South Africa, The Middle East and Europe, her eclectic style draws from a wide range of influences.
At just 14 years old, Annelise, the winner of the Under 15 years category, has a maturity in her songs that belies her years. A regular busker, Annelise has an exceptional voice, writes her own songs and plays guitar and keyboard. No doubt she will have an invaluable experience being mentored by Xani of The Twoks.
The Bello Winter Music Youth Mentorship Program is proudly sponsored by Kombu Wholefoods and supported by the Bello Youth Hub.
“Listening to the winners this year we're blown away by the level of talent out there. Lowanna and I feel lucky to have the chance to support the winners of the Youth Mentorship Program for 2018. We wish them all the best at the festival and look forward to watching them play live! A big thank you to the team at Bello Winter Music for putting the mentorship in place and offering us the chance to support it this year,” said Kevin Doye of Kombu Wholefoods.
Each winner receives a rehearsal session with their mentor, a 20-minute performance at the festival with their mentor backstage, the opportunity to watch their mentor perform from backstage, and passes to the festival.
For details and winners performance times visit www.bellowintermusic.com