The Country Music Association of Australia (CMAA) Academy of Country Music has announced South Australian singer-songwriter Gemma Tiller as the recipient of the esteemed Keith Urban Scholarship for 2024.
The Academy rewarded Gemma’s outstanding talent and dedication with this scholarship that covers her tuition fees for the 2024 Senior Course that begins on Monday, January 8, 2024. “Getting the phone call from Academy Director, Lyn Bowtell to say that I had been chosen as the recipient for this scholarship was definitely a ‘pinch me’ moment!” Gemma said.
Multi-award winning artist and Academy Director Lyn Bowtell said Gemma’s dedication and hard work was a standout when deciding on the successful recipient. “Gemma’s commitment to honing her skills and her infectious enthusiasm for The Academy experience made her a standout choice for the prestigious Keith Urban Scholarship,” she said. “We believe she will continue to shine and inspire others with her artistry, and we are thrilled to support her on this remarkable journey.”
Gemma’s journey with the CMAA Academy is not a new one, having graduated from the Junior Course in July 2023 and she now returns to Tamworth for the 12-day Senior Course. “The CMAA Academy is something that is very close to my heart; graduating from the Junior Course in 2023, I knew that attending the Senior Course was the next thing on my list I wanted to tick off,” she said. “I met so many beautiful, talented people that I am so lucky to now call my mates, I really ‘found my tribe’ and I am SO excited to do it all over again!”
The Keith Urban Scholarship, awarded annually, covers the full academy fees for one promising artist and began in January 2020 as a way for the international country music superstar and Aussie ex-pat to support emerging artists. “I want to take this opportunity to say a HUGE thank you to Keith and his team for supporting up-and-coming Australian artists like myself with this scholarship, and to the CMAA Academy team for all of your ongoing love and support,” Gemma said.
