Nashville singer-songwriter Kacie Grenon, who performs as Grenon, said her time at the CMAA Academy of Country Music was intense and rewarding after travelling to Australia on a Nashville–Tamworth Sister City Academy scholarship supported by Maton.
Grenon said there were plenty of highlights of being at The Academy.
“I was definitely expecting long days where we were working really hard, which I think, since we’re working on music-related things, is exciting, because I love it and I never get tired of it,” Grenon said.
While songwriting was a major drawcard, Grenon said the balance of creative and performance-based sessions stood out.
“I was not expecting the live performance workshops as much, and I really enjoy both aspects (writing and performing), so I think that was really cool,” she said.
One surprise for Grenon was The Academy flash mob.
“I was definitely not expecting the flash mob – that’s not something I had on my bingo card,” she said.
“I loved it. I’m definitely going to mark that as a bucket list item that I’ve definitely done.”
Grenon said the connections formed during the program had been the highlight.
“I think, honestly, just the people and getting the opportunity to write with everyone, and meet up with everyone afterwards,” she said.
“I’m already extending my trip and staying with friends that I’ve made here, so that’s been my favourite part.”
Grenon said her decision to apply came from wanting to push herself further this year.
“One of my goals for the new year was to expand my horizons beyond Nashville and play and write with more people outside of my circle,” she said.
“I was just thinking regionally, and then I had this, and the universe went, actually, think bigger … you should go to Australia.”
Grenon will graduate from The Academy with her fellow students tonight, Thursday, 15 January, at Moonshiners and will then play at the Official Opening of the Tamworth Country Music Festival with The Academy as well as two songs of her own, then appear on the Toyota FanZone stage on 18 January, and take part in the Maton Showcase on Thursday, January 22 at Wests.
Grenon said she would encourage other Nashvillians to follow in her footsteps.
“I would tell them to come next year,” she said.
“It’ll be hot, but that’s what summer in Nashville is like anyway, so you can beat the cold.”
Grenon also offered advice for future exchange artists.
“Just throw yourself into it,” she said.
“I did come alone, and I didn’t really know anyone to begin with … but I’ve made so many really cool, genuine friendships.”
This experience has given her an Academy family.
“I think one of my biggest goals with being here was to find a way to come back whenever that will end up being, and I think I’ve started to do that,” Grennon said.
“After the festival, I just want to explore, I want to write with as many people as I can. Since I’m already here, I might as well see as much as I can.”
Maton Australia supports this joint initiative of the Country Music Association of Australia and Sister Cities Nashville.
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