Emerging Artist Program
Connie Kis Andersen Bio:
Connie Kis Andersen enjoys a reputation as one of the finest, most dedicated and professional artists to hail from Perth, Western Australia.
Entering into the music business as a mature-aged, female recording artist was no easy undertaking, but through her talent, work ethic, commitment to her dream and her willingness to tour and work relentlessly in the promotion of her music, she has re-defined the music industry paradigm of success.
With six independent albums, one E.P. and several hit songs to her name, Connie Kis has overcome many personal and physical obstacles, including Australia's 'tyranny of distance' to find herself the grateful recipient of multiple awards in Australia for song writing and as an artist.
As well, she produced and hosted a world-wide syndicated and popular weekly radio program; SHOWCASE AUSTRALIA for over 13 years and was recently recognised by her industry through her elevation into the Australian Country Music Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Under the guidance of leading songwriter Connie Kis Andersen, a series of intensive Songwriting & Stagecraft Workshops will be presented in the lead up to the festival, for budding songwriters of all kinds wanting to hone their skills in Songwriting and Performance.
Proudly supported by Rigters IGA, participants will work at the Regional Sounds Studio - 246 Marine Terrace to gain valuable knowledge and skills.
A final workshop will be held, aiming to provide participants with the opportunity to hone their skills and gain confidence. Following the workshop, participants will have the chance to showcase their work and enter the Emerging Artists Award through short performances on the main stage, with judging scheduled for Friday, October 17, 2025
2024 Winner - Darren Gillis – Winner,
Chapman Valley Emerging Artist Award
“Leading up to the 2024 Chapman Valley Country Music Festival, I had the amazing opportunity to participate in a three-day songwriting workshop facilitated by Connie.I gained so much insight into the elements of and the theory behind songwriting. Connie’s extensive industry experience was freely shared with us all, in a very interactive and engaging environment. Connie’s delivery was both professional and interesting.She definitely knows her craft and is a wealth of knowledge.It was very reassuring to put all the elements into practice and further understand the craft ofsongwriting. I also found it very interesting to gain an understanding in relation to the psychology surrounding stage delivery and measures that can be employed to reduce stress before and during performances.Would I recommend attending a session with Connie? Ahhh... HELL YES, do it, you will not regret it. In addition to the insight you will gain, she is a very humble lady with a heart of gold. You will make a friend for life.”