Keith Urban & Tamworth Country Music Festival Launch “Rising Star” Scholarship: A Golden Ticket for Emerging Talent
In a groundbreaking collaboration, country music superstar Keith Urban, who first found his footing in Tamworth, has joined forces with the Tamworth Country Music Festival (TCMF) to introduce the “Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship”—an unprecedented opportunity for burgeoning Australian artists.
A Legendary Launchpad: From Tamworth Beginnings
The TCMF has been a vital incubator for Aussie country music, a 10-day January festival in Tamworth, New South Wales, featuring performances, talent quests, and the ACMA Golden Guitar Awards. The event transforms the city into a musical mecca—drawing crowds that can double its usual population.
The Scholarship Package: Complete Nashville Immersion
One standout emerging artist will receive the full scholarship package: all expenses paid for travel to Nashville, industry meetings, performance and songwriting opportunities, and two full days recording at Keith Urban’s studio, The Sound (formerly the legendary Tracking Room). Applications open in January 2026, with recipients chosen via an online process managed by the festival team.
Voices That Inspire
Keith Urban remarks:
“Sometimes all a musician needs is an opportunity to be heard or someone to nurture their talent.”
He hopes this scholarship not only propels the winner but also ignites inspiration in many others.
Peter Ross, the festival’s Executive Manager, adds: “Keith epitomizes the Tamworth Festival’s path to success. Together, we want to provide emerging artists the chance to take Australian country music to the world.”.
A Big Win for Australian Country Music
This initiative transcends the typical scholarship—it’s a powerful beacon for aspiring artists. From Peel Street busking to global stages, Tamworth continues to spark dreams.