Debut album just the beginning

Eatons Hill musician Zoe Quinn is one of 15 young music acts taking part in PLUG IN ONLINE.

Having released her debut EP this year, the 18-year-old says she is gradually returning to playing live as COVID-19 restrictions ease.

While the pandemic wiped her calendar clear of gigs, she says she’s also grateful to have had the chance to finish Hearts on Sleeves, which features four tracks.

“It’s my first time releasing and album, so it’s pretty amazing,” Zoe says.

Debut EP

She says Hearts on Sleeves reflects her life experience, especially attending the Woodford Folk Festival and travelling.

“I’ve been attending Woodford since I was four, and I’ve found many musical influences there.

“I was accepted to be an artist at the Planting Festival, and then COVID happened and everything was put on hold.”

Building on the success of Plug In Music Week, Creative Arts Alliance adapted its music mentorship program to an online platform to support the growth and sustainability of the music sector across the south east Queensland north region.

Unique experience

Through PLUG IN ONLINE, 15 young music acts are taking part in the online mentorship program, which is designed to develop and support their business and music skills.

The artists receive access to tailored creative and industry development facilitated by leading music professionals, venues, festivals and industry organisations and weekly one-on-one mentor sessions from local musicians and music industry professionals, as well as a personalised action plan.

Professional growth

Zoe says PLUG IN ONLINE has been an incredible experience that’s helped her grow as a professional musician.

“It’s been amazing and I am so grateful to have been chosen for it.

“We’ve done group session work, and one-on-one work and everything I have learnt through PLUG IN will be really beneficial.”

Off the back of the successful release of Hearts On Sleeves, Zoe plans to return to the studio in a couple of weeks to record more songs.

Other Moreton Bay artists involved in PLUG IN ONLINE include Phoebe Purtill, 24, Josh Crawford, 16, Max Irvin, 16, and Dallyn Johnston, 16.

Next generation

Creative Arts Alliance manager Katie Edmiston says the program supports the next generation of performers.

“This is such an exciting opportunity for local young musicians to learn new skills and grow their industry networks,” Katie explains.

“We have pulled together a stellar line up of mentors from blues, rock, pop, country and hip-hop who will be guiding the participants throughout the program.”

PLUG IN ONLINE MENTORSHIP is an initiative of Creative Arts Alliance delivered as part of their Regional Arts Services Network program, which is funded by Arts Queensland.

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Header image credit: Photography by Ellie Daubney