First Nations music survey identifies strengths and challenges

providing insight

CONTENT COURTESY AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS

A new survey of First Nations musicians provides timely insights into the strengths, challenges, and needs of the First Nations music sector.

How do First Nations musicians feel about the music industryWhat are the key challenges and needs for the future growth of the sector? These were some of the questions explored in a new survey of First Nations musicians.

The survey reflects respondents’ activities and attitudes prior to COVID-19.

The majority of First Nations musicians nominated their ability to inspire, challenge, and build understanding between people as being among their greatest strengths, while as many as 73 per cent found the lack of financial return for creative work was the greatest challenge.

Australia Council’s Executive Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Lydia Miller said the survey provides a timely glimpse into the experience of First Nations musicians.

“The survey results provide insights to inform the music industry as it recovers, rebuilds and looks to the future – a future in which First Nations talent and artistry is nurtured, celebrated and central in the music industry and Australia’s culture,” she said.

Miller said First Nations music plays a critical role in Australia’s music identity.

“The future growth of the First Nations music sector requires First Nations artists to be at the centre of dialogue and decision-making, driving the creative vision and empowered to step into their role as custodians of the oldest musical practice in the world, ensuring that the next generation can benefit through creativity and participate in a cultural future,” she said.

Key findings:

  • Strengths of being a First Nations musician include inspiring other First Nations artists (79 per cent), opportunities to educate, challenge and build understanding with non-First Nations people (72 per cent), and creating pathways for the next generations of First Nations musicians (69 per cent).
  • Many challenges were identified by respondents including lack of financial return from creative practice (73 per cent), lack of time to do creative work due to other pressures and responsibilities (56 per cent), and lack of access to funding or financial support (52 per cent).
  • The greatest needs were financial assistance (66 per cent), recognition by the wider music industry (63 per cent), and more networking opportunities (60 per cent).

The following Australia Council for the Arts opportunities are open now for First Nations musicians and artists:

 The Stiff Gins perform at the 2020 First Nations Arts Awards on May 27 2020 (also pictured above). Image credit Flavia Rossler.