Live music festivals to hit the streets of Blacktown

Musicians will play in streets, restaurants, cafes and shops in Blacktown from next year as part of a program that will bring family-friendly music festivals to communities.

Michael Duchesne, jazz and soul singer from Quakers Hill, says the program will foster the talent of western Sydney musicians.

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MUSICIANS will play in streets, restaurants, cafes and shops in Blacktown from next year as part of a program that will bring family-friendly music festivals to communities.

Blacktown is one of five councils across western Sydney to secure a $150,000 grant under the State Government’s Sydney Live and Local Strategic Initiative that will showcase the talents of local musicians while providing a free show for residents.

Quakers Hill musician Michael Duchesne welcomed the move.

“There is a lack of music culture in the west,” the 25-year-old said.

“The bars out west have more of a traditional pub feel, but in the city people go out and have a nice dinner, some drinks and then can get a cab home. The city is a nicer environment to perform at.”

A former contestant on The Voice, soul and jazz singer Mr Duchesne travels around Sydney for gigs and would jump on the chance to perform locally. “Most of the gigs I do are in the Sydney CBD,” Mr Dechesne said.

Deputy Premier and Arts and Culture Minister Troy Grant said the community would work to create a vibrant entertainment for everyone.

“Blacktown City Council will work with local businesses to present a curated music series inside a local restaurant or outside a cafe,” Mr Grant said.

Live Music Office policy director John Wardle said the micro festivals would be free to the public.