Youth Music Matters judge Inch Chua: How to kickstart your music career at this new Singapore youth band competition

If you’re an aspiring local musician, Singapore offers a myriad of platforms to hone your skills and showcase your talent. From competitions and gigs, to mentorship programmes by non-profit organisations, the opportunities are endless. However, when it comes to building your portfolio as a young band, “Youth Music Matters” stands out as one of the best avenues to get your name out there.

Launched by Branded (the producers of “Music Matters Live”) in collaboration with Timbre Group and Temasek Foundation, “Youth Music Matters" is a nationwide quest to discover and support the next wave of Singaporean music stars aged 15 to 25 years old.

The winning band will have the exciting privilege to perform live on Sept 20, 2024 at the renowned Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix. Plus, they'll snag a one-month residency at Timbre+ One North, four passes to the exclusive "All That Matters" conference, and an invite to the "Music Matters Live" festival and academy.

To delve deeper into what this competition has to offer, Catch spoke with one of the talented guest judges in the “Youth Music Matters” panel, singer-songwriter Inch Chua.

CREATING A NURTURING ENVIRONMENT

As the founder of "Music for Good”, a non-profit organisation dedicated to uplifting our music community and supporting our local arts scene, Chua is passionate about nurturing young talent. She views "Youth Music Matters" as the perfect launchpad for emerging musicians, whether they're seasoned performers or new to the stage.

“I remember being that age and having an opportunity to be on stage is really important to exercise and further develop their talents,” she said.

Understanding that performing on stage can be a daunting experience, Chua and the rest of the “Youth Music Matters” team was determined to keep the band auditions relaxed and welcoming at the small but homely Timbre Music Academy studio.

“We want to keep it in a very cosy environment here at the academy, so we don't have to scare anyone being on a stage right now,” Chua explained. This approach, she believes, will help bands ease into performing while allowing judges to better assess each talent’s stage presence and skillset.

FOSTERING A COMMUNITY THAT LIFTS EACH OTHER UP

Chua highlights that a key aspect of the bands' development is the opportunity to interact with other bands and experienced guest judges within the music industry. This interaction provides budding bands with invaluable insights, allowing them to learn from the successes and challenges of their peers.

At the heart of this approach is the goal of building a strong community within the music industry. As Chua puts it: “To me, it’s about building that community and introducing more people into it.”

This community is more than just a platform for growth; it’s also a major source of inspiration and motivation for up-and-coming artists. It creates a supportive environment where they can fine-tune their skills, push themselves to reach their full potential, and find the success and fulfilment they’re striving for in the industry.

THE JOURNEY DOESN’T END AFTER THE COMPETITION

The opportunity for emerging bands to perform live at the Singapore Grand Prix represents a pivotal moment in their careers. For Chua, this is a transformative chance for young musicians to significantly elevate their careers.

“The Singapore Grand Prix is probably one of the most important events throughout the calendar year for performances. I remember playing it for the first time when I was like 23,” she recalled. “So I think, to be able to jumpstart your career as young as 15, and have a good show like that on your resume can definitely open doors.”

In addition to providing this career-enhancing opportunity, the “Youth Music Matters” initiative extends its support through a one-month residency programme after the competition ends. This programme provides the winning band with ongoing guidance and mentorship, fostering their growth and development in the music industry.

In this regard, the overall approach by the “Youth Music Matters” team reflects a deep commitment to nurturing and guiding young talent towards long-term success.

“I think that's the whole idea of being able to support and create more opportunities and avenues for youth to make youths flourish,” said Chua. “I think that's what I think we're all about and that's what my non-profit “Music For Good” is all about as well.”

Ultimately, Chua believes that, as an artist herself, this competition represents a remarkable opportunity for young musicians to showcase their talent and potential. She looks forward to witnessing the emergence of promising new artists, and is enthusiastic about the impact this initiative will have on their careers.

Experience the passion, talent and electrifying performances of our local music scene at the “Youth Music Matters” competition. Catch the semi-finalists and finalists in action on Sept 7 and 8, and remain on the edge of your seat as the winner gets revealed.

Image Credits: FARN, Youth Music Matters, Timbre Music Academy, Timbre Group