Applications Now Open

Sydney’s OG youth band program Bondi WAVE returns to Bondi Pavilion Music Studios from 8 May to 11 August 2023 for students wanting to learn how to write and arrange original music.

Bondi WAVE has been an incubator for homegrown musical talent for the past 30 years and has helped propel the careers of some of Australia’s best new artists including Ilan Kidron, Martha Marlow, Kelly Sutherland from Architecture in Helsinki and Triple J Hottest 100 alumni, The Tenants.

The 12-week program is run by Waverley Council with students mentored by a rotating roster of industry professionals including drummer Jim Elliot from The Cruel Sea, Rose Fitzgerald and Luke O’Loughlin from I Know Leopard, Dan Mac from Art Vs Science and Brendan Gallagher from Karma County.

It is open to all high school students and senior primary school students across Sydney, who sing or play an instrument, are interested in joining a band or are currently in one.

The program includes a professional recording in the Bondi Pavilion Music Studios and culminates in a final concert in the Bondi Pavilion Theatre, which has recently hosted Vika and Linda Bull, cabaret artist Reuben Kaye and First Nations composer and saxophonist Brenda Gifford.

Mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos, said Bondi WAVE gives young artists a unique insight into the music industry and helps take their talents to the next level.

“Whether you are new to music or an experienced player, the Bondi WAVE program is a fantastic introduction to playing in a band and creating original music,” Mayor Masselos said.

Council’s Music Producer, Dr Michael Galeazzi, said Bondi WAVE continues to cultivate and inspire a new generation of musicians.

“I can’t tell you how proud we are when our Bondi WAVE participants take the stage and the recording studio which is where the magic happens,” Dr Galeazzi said.

“Bondi WAVE is a unique opportunity for people as young as 11 and 12 to develop their practical skills and see where it takes them.”

Bondi WAVE has been supported by several industry heavyweights over the years including the Australia Council, Powerhouse Musuem, Drum Media, Roland and Billy Hydes.