Ryde local Phoebe Kenji (AKA Jade Kenji) graduated from the Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production) at TAFE NSW in 2021 and has just launched her debut EP with her producer friend Kase Avila.  

Though Australia’s live and recorded music industry has taken a hit due to COVID-19, major streaming services Spotify and Apple Music continue to keep Australia’s digital music market afloat, with the industry gaining 8.3 percent in consumer revenue during COVID-191. 

Phoebe had always wanted to study music and a friend encouraged her to try a course at TAFE NSW. A former TAFE NSW graduate, Phoebe had enjoyed the supportive environment and decided to enrol after attending a music course information night.

“My major goal was to just allow myself to explore my relationship with music in a safe and structured environment. My parents discouraged me from studying anything art related as a teenager, so it was scary and exhilarating to think that at the age of 30, I would finally get my chance!” Phoebe said.

Her debut EP 'Maroyaka', produced by Kase Avila, showcases the duo’s love for classic R'n'B sounds and Japanese hip hop and their song Teardrops was recently featured in Acclaim Magazine’s heat of the week.

“The feedback has been amazing and overwhelming. Especially the love I've been receiving from western Sydney. Launching during COVID-19 has meant we’ve relied on digital streaming to grow our fan base, but it’s been surprisingly effective. I grew up in southwest Sydney, so it means the world to me that my community is resonating with our music and the messages behind it.”

“Going to TAFE has hands down been one of the best decisions I've ever made. You absolutely cannot predict the opportunities waiting for you on the other side of that classroom door!”

Head Teacher of Music at TAFE NSW Michael Rohanek said the Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production) equips students with the skill to create albums, collaborate with fellow artists and explore the world of audio post-production. 

“Our students gain skills in editing and mixing audio, performance, studio recording, music arrangement and so much more,” Mr Rohanek said.

“If you have a passion for music, TAFE NSW can absolutely give you the skills you need to get where you want to be. We pride ourselves on producing some of the best, most unique musical talents in New South Wales.”

As for Phoebe, she’s excited to continue to grow her career in music and is thankful to TAFE NSW for giving her the confidence and skills to pursue her dream.

“I have absolutely achieved my career goals and so much more. So many amazing and unbelievable opportunities have arisen from my studies. The highlight was going on a study tour to the South by Southwest festival and LA and getting to visit Westlake Recording Studios, where Michael Jackson recorded Thriller!” 

To find out more about the range of study options available at TAFE NSW including the Diploma of Music Industry (Sound Production), visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Alice Dalley, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, alice.dalley1@tafensw.edu.au, mobile 0402 528 210.