The Lithgow Lowdown Project was a transformative mentorship initiative that took place as part of the Lithgow Lowdown Live Music Event on November 25, 2023, at Club Lithgow. The project, generously funded by a $10,000 FRRR (Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal) grant, brought together local musicians, youth, and artists from the Blue Mountains, Lithgow, and the Central West for an unforgettable day of music, learning, and community collaboration.
The mentorship program was a key component of this initiative, designed to provide young, emerging musicians with the tools, knowledge, and hands-on experience needed to enhance their skills and navigate the music industry. Led by Artistic Directors Willem Henriksen (also Director of Retro Rehash) and Sam Williams (known for his work as Sam Bucca), the mentorship sessions offered an opportunity for local talent to engage with iconic Australian musicians from Midnight Oil and The Masters Apprentices, as well as music industry professionals.
Mentorship Program Overview
Taking place over an 8-day period at the Lithgow Transformation Hub and Little Hartley Hall, the mentorship program involved a range of practical workshops and intimate, hands-on learning experiences. The program’s main goal was to offer young artists the chance to develop their songwriting, showmanship, stagecraft, and industry insights.
The mentorship included:
- Site Visit and Curation Workshop:
Mentees were given a comprehensive tour of Club Lithgow, the event venue, where they were introduced to stage design and event curation. This workshop aimed to empower participants with knowledge about how to plan and organize live performances, with an emphasis on creating a cohesive and dynamic performance environment. - Stage Plot Workshop:
Local musicians learned the importance of stage plots—essential tools for organizing and designing live shows. The workshop guided mentees on how to create effective stage plots, which would not only help them with their own performances but also serve as valuable teaching material for other emerging bands. - Promotions and Social Media Workshop:
Participants gained hands-on experience in crafting press releases and building social media strategies to promote their events. The focus was on how to engage audiences, build a following, and communicate effectively with both fans and industry professionals through digital platforms. - Runsheet and Backline Booking Workshop:
This workshop introduced mentees to the logistical side of live music events, focusing on how to organize a runsheet (the schedule for performances and backstage activities) and book backline equipment (such as amplifiers, drums, etc.). These skills are vital for understanding the inner workings of a live concert and preparing for smooth operations behind the scenes. - Lighting and Sound Equipment Training:
Participants were also taught how to handle lighting and sound equipment, learning the technical aspects of live performances. This session allowed the young musicians to understand how to use audio-visual technology to elevate their performances, creating an engaging atmosphere for the audience.
Mentorship with Industry Legends
The mentorship program was led by legendary Australian musicians, including Charlie McMahon (of Midnight Oil), and Dr. Jason Thornton and Danny Burgess (of The Masters Apprentices). These mentors provided personalized guidance on the music industry, showmanship, song structure, and performance skills, helping mentees fine-tune their stage presence and develop a deep understanding of the music business.
The mentorship culminated in the Lithgow Lowdown Live Music Event where the Lithgow All Stars—a dynamic collective of 23 local musicians—performed a medley of classic hits from Midnight Oil, AC/DC, and The Masters Apprentices. The event was a celebration of the powerful collaboration between local talent and industry professionals, showcasing the incredible potential of the Lithgow music scene.
Community Impact and Legacy
The Lithgow Lowdown not only brought together artists for a powerful, community-driven celebration of music and culture, but it also made a lasting impact on the local community. The mentorship program allowed young musicians to hone their craft, build valuable connections, and gain the confidence to pursue a future in music. The program helped foster a stronger sense of community and supported local artists in finding their voice in a rapidly changing world.
By the end of the event, the energy was palpable, with a sense of unity and shared purpose among the attendees and participants. The mentorship program, funded by the FRRR grant and supported by the Greater Blue Mountains Creative Arts Network, demonstrated the power of the arts to inspire, uplift, and bring people together for the greater good.
This initiative reflects the enduring spirit of collaboration in the Lithgow and Blue Mountains communities, and will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy for future generations of musicians and artists in the region.
