A UNSW charity concert is revitalising Australia’s music scene, following the cancellation of major festivals and growing concerns about the nation’s live music industry.
The annual student-organised Jam in a Jar concert will be held at Roundhouse and is raising funds for the Sydney Children’s Hospital.
UNSW student organiser Harry Crisp, 20, believes small live shows like this are key to saving the future of live music in Australia.
“It’s an entry level for small aussie artists to make their way into the broader live music scene,” Mr Crisp said.
“If you catch a band at a local gig, you’re more inclined to go watch them perform at a bigger festival and spend a bit more money to see them live again.”
Creative Australia’s Soundcheck report found that only 56 per cent of festivals made a profit in 2022-23, after struggling to overcome “skyrocketing operational costs and declining attendance from younger audiences”.
Mr Crisp is proud to be a part of an initiative that provides affordable access to live music.
“Local gigs are an easy way to engage the whole community,” Mr Crisp said.
“The venues are more intimate and usually nearby spots you’d regularly hang out at anyway.
“We’re proud to raise funds for a hospital that is close to the college and give back to a place that does so much for young kids.”
Music enthusiast Bridie Walsh, 20, is eager to attend the event and contribute to a worthy cause.
“I love discovering new music and supporting up and coming artists,” Miss Walsh said.
“I think it’s such a great concept, we get to have a fun night with our mates and listen to some new, niche bands.
“Knowing our money will be given to the Sydney Children’s Hospital makes the whole event much more meaningful.”
The Jam in a Jar concert will feature the alternative-rock indie bands Surf Trash, Guppy Days, and The Good Kids.
The event will take place on Thursday, September 19.
If you’d like to learn more about the concert, you can visit their Facebook or website here.
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