STA are thrilled to announce our new Regional MusicNSW Officer has arrived

MusicNSW has appointed five regional-based team members. The regional MusicNSW team will work collaboratively to lead regional music development across the state, with Sam Rees focusing across the far South Coast and Southern Tablelands regions.

Following a search that began in November 2022, five music professionals now join the

MusicNSW team with a remit to deliver development opportunities and work to expand touring circuits across regional NSW. The newly-created roles have been made possible thanks to Create NSW following a landmark four-year funding commitment.

As a lifelong musician growing up in Coolagolite, Rees has been active in the south coast music scene developing relationships with musicians, venue owners and industry professionals for years. During that time he has fostered relationships within the music community and industry providing leadership and mentorship for local musicians. Through his studies in Entertainment Business Management and multiple national tours as a musician, he has found passion and purpose through the entertainment industry.

Supported by MusicNSW core funding partners Create NSW and APRA AMCOS. The regional Music Officers program is supported by STA and the entire the Regional Arts Network who work with the team to maximise community benefit.

Emily Collins, MusicNSW Managing Director said: “We are so excited to have these new team members to strengthen all things music in the regions. The regional music community has so much rich talent and deserves all the support that the big cities are exposed to. The regional music professionals selected to represent their communities will deliver on-the-ground support to provide regionally-driven professional development, grant support, and touring resources, culminating each year with five tours across regional NSW.”

John Graham, NSW Minister for Arts, Night Time Economy and Music, said: “MusicNSW has been leading nationally on regional music development, and the NSW Government is proud to fund these new roles. MusicNSW’s newly appointed regional team will help artists hit the road, build regional music networks and expand NSW’s profile as an ideal destination for regional touring.”

Dr Tracey Callinan, CEO, Regional Arts NSW, said: “These new positions are crucial for the development of the music industry in regional NSW. We welcome MusicNSW’s strategic approach to embed support to ensure that our regional musicians, venues and tech staff are able to thrive.”

Pictured L-R: Sophie
Jones, Kayne Mills, Ali Buckley, Dave Burgener, Sam Rees. Photographer: Georgia
Jane Griffiths

Sam Rees. Photographer: Georgia Jane Griffiths

Sam playing up a storm

Listen to Sam at his SoundCloud