There has perhaps never been a time in history when making, producing and releasing music has been easier and more accessible to just about anyone. However, there are still a number of obstacles in the way of budding musicians looking to break into the industry, mainly the cost of music education and equipment. Never fear, if you’re living in Sydney but a bit short on cash or simply spending all your income on housing there are many free options. Everything from learning instruments to singing to electronic music production to music business are covered by these 5 organisations.
Heaps Decent
Heaps Decent was founded in 2007 by Sydney siders DJ Levins and Nina Las Vegas with American producer Diplo. They run a free weekly music workshop for 14 to 24 year old’s at Redfern Community Centre focusing on recording, song writing, beat making and DJing. As well as weekly classes they run programs at locations all around Australia at schools, community centres, juvenile justice centres and studios. With the help of the occasional guest music facilitator they have released over 1000 songs by talented young Australians.
City of Sydney at Redfern Community Centre
If you’re too old (or too young) for Heaps Decent, City of Sydney Council also runs a number of music workshops at the Redfern Community Centre. Workshops include hip hop music business, classes teaching how to use Logic X or Ableton, guitar and bass lessons and singing lessons. Currently under way according to City of Sydney Council website are DJ workshops on Mondays, singing classes on Tuesdays and music production on Thursdays. Check the website for more information as what’s on offer each week changes regularly.
https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/venues/redfern-community-centre
Hack Sounds
Also located in Redfern is Hack Sounds which takes place at 107 Projects. Hack Sounds was founded in 2015 with the intention of developing an inclusive community music program and to provide an introduction to electronic music production. Aiming to be accessible to everyone, the program strives to be welcoming whether you’re disabled, inexperienced in music or non-English speaking. As part of the course students can learn how to use a variety of hardware supplied by Roland, collaborate with others and learn about music business and career opportunities. A semester, which lasts 10 weeks, is currently underway but they will be hosting another intake later in the year. Hack Sounds also hosts irregular open community “come and play” sessions, so keep an eye on Hack Sounds social media.
TAFE Music
The music department at Ultimo TAFE provides longer paid for courses that cover just about every facet of the music industry from business to performing. Like all TAFE courses, they provide skills that will leave you ready for employment on graduation. If you’re not sure if a music career is for you and you just want a taste or if you have some spare time and want to learn a new skill they also run short courses in TAFE holidays. Learn how to use Ableton, take up an instrument, improve your singing or get inside knowledge of the music business – there is a short course for just about anyone.
The Street University
It’s an unfortunate fact that arts funding is disproportionately focused on the inner city, but thankfully for those out west not every place that offers free music classes is located in inner Sydney. The Street University is a project set up by the Ted Noffs foundation with centres in Liverpool and Mt Druitt. It aims to assist and connect with youth aged between 12 -25 years who are not engaged with mainstream education. Workshops in music and other disciplines such as dance are taught in a progressive way that aims to build a community. The program strives to help youth realise their dreams and assist in transitioning into further education.
OffCampus 
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