Get set for the AustralianMusic Prize 2006

Wed 18th Oct, 2006 in Features

“And the winner is…” Yes it’s that time of year again when the music awards are either dished out or nominated, however there is one particular prize that is not just your average musical accolade. Focusing on the artist’s creativity and not mutually exclusive to their commercial achievements, the Australian Music Prize 2006 (referred to simply as The AMP 2006) has opened for nominations again this year.

The driving force behind the annual prize originated from former record label boss and promoter Scott Murphy, who saw the need to reward Australian artistic development and achievement, in a format similar to the UK’s prestigious Mercury Music Prize. In partnership with the Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA), a substantial cash prize is on offer to Australia’s emerging talent.

PPCA Board Member Lindy Morrison explains, “PPCA came onboard immediately when Scott approached us in 2005. PPCA saw the importance of an award that rewarded artistic excellence in an Australian recording. PPCA is the collection society for the use of the sound recording and pays Australian recording artists and record companies. PPCA provides the $25,000 prize money. “

After a previously successful competition in 2005, culminating in the prize ceremony held at the NSW Art Gallery, and ultimately won by The Drones’ entry Wait Long by the River and the Bodies of Your Enemies Will Float By, the prize again looks set to attract many Australian artists from a diverse range of genres and backgrounds.

“Last year (we attracted) over 250 entries, we are hopeful for over 400 entries this year, maybe more,” said Morrison.

The nominations are short-listed to 8 by the 31st January 2007 and are chosen from a panel of over one hundred judges. Just who are these judges?

Morrison states, “There are hundred judges who are from retail, who are music critics and artists. The award chooses judges that will have as little conflict as possible with the results. The judges understand the criteria for this prize does not rest with commercial production values. The judges understand this artist’s prize is given for recordings that are memorable and lasting, evocative and imaginative. The recording may not necessarily be just mainstream and may also be from the fringe and margins.”

One benefit of the prize aside from the cash has been the increased public exposure the artist receives.

“The prize will provide recognition for the band that wins, and for those bands that are nominated, recognition both overseas and by Australian radio. Commercial radio sometimes doesn’t appear to have a broad appreciation of up and coming Australian talent. There are many talented and creative bands that are making superb sounding recordings that can’t get commercial airplay. Hopefully this award will provide commercial radio with the incentive to look outside the narrow sounds they presently broadcast.”

If you’re a band or solo artist looking for a boost to broader appreciation and commercial success, you can do no wrong by applying.

The closing date for nominations is December 1 2006 and the prize winner will be announced on March 7, 2007.

Further information can be found including nomination criteria at the AMP homepage at www.australianmusicprize.com.au