Hervey Bay’s William Ramage auditions for Australian Idol

A popular Qld wedding singer who recently tied the knot himself has landed a dream audition on the star-making reality show.

After teaching himself to play the guitar at 12 and discovering a passion for music, a Hervey Bay singer and DJ who is used to performing in front of hundreds of people will soon be seen by the entire nation.

William Ramage, 22, tried out for season 10 of Australian Idol earlier this year and is set to perform on an upcoming episode of the Channel 7 program.

Audiences will be able to watch him play to judges – pop legend Marcia Hines, Australian singer-songwriter Amy Shark, radio host Kyle Sandilands and former Australian Idol contestant and singer Ricki-Lee Coulter.

Mr Ramage, who just last year wed tourism marketing whiz and jewellery maker Hannah, was joined by his wife at the Sydney Cricket Grounds audition.

Hervey Bay wedding singer William Ramage, pictured here on his own wedding day to Hannah with his trusted guitar, has auditioned for Australian Idol. Photo: Luke Middlemiss Photography

“My wonderful family, mum, three siblings, dad and stepmum, were cheering me on from afar while the filming was happening,” he said.

“I’ve got great friends that are local musicians who are also cheering me on.”

Having enjoyed watching the show while growing up, he heard of the latest opportunity and thought, “why not?”

“I’ve always watched the show and finally thought that it’s the right time in my life to try out and audition” he said.

Mr Ramage taught himself how to play the guitar when he was 12 from a music book with the help of his dad, Mark.

“I only started singing a few months later when I was approached by my music teacher, Twilla.

“I then started doing competitions and that’s when I really found my passion for music.

“Nothing made me feel like how it did on that stage. Music for me is my peace.

“It’s my quiet place where I can forget about everything and focus on the music.

“It’s become my passion and the career I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Mr Ramage has played at venues across Hervey Bay, Bundaberg and Maryborough but specialises in weddings, where he plays acoustic guitar and DJs.

Hervey Bay's William Ramage has auditioned for Australian Idol.

“I love all types of music, from old classic by Elvis Presley and modern-day hits by Ed Sheeran,” he said.

Mr Ramage said what he loved most about performing was seeing people get up and dance.

“I love that I can make people feel and connect with my music,” he said.

“I believe music is one of the greatest gifts in life.”

Mr Ramage said performing in front of the judges had been “incredibly nerve-racking”.

Hervey Bay's William Ramage has auditioned for Australian Idol.

“I’ve never been more nervous in my life,” he said.

“Especially when you have these incredible judges staring at you.

“All eyes are on you and the pressure is very high as it’s all on live TV.

“It’s just you and the three judges in a huge room with bright lights and cameras everywhere.”

The show has returned to television screens this month and will continue on Sunday from 7pm.

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Originally published as Hervey Bay’s William Ramage auditions for Australian Idol