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If Things go according to plan, Hollywood's next big blockbuster could just feature music by a Toowoomba songwriter.
William Ellsum recently won a prestigious award for the instrumental section in the international Song of the Year songwriting contest; an achievement which could earn him a recording contract and worldwide recognition.
"The hardest part in the songwriting industry is getting noticed - it's hard to even get your stuff heard in Australia," Mr Ellsum said.
"People have been 'found' by entering this contest because it generates a lot of interest."
Mr Ellsum will have to wait until early next year to find out whether his song Winds of Change (one of three entries he submitted into the contest) has won the grand prize.
Beating thousands of aspiring songwriters from all over the world for the monthly prize, however, has pleased the Santana fan.
"It's pretty cool," Mr Ellsum said.
"The song is a blended melody, with a neo-classical centre for intensity - it's based on the idea and moods of life. It could be used by a singer, or could be used as a movie soundtrack."
Anyone interested in hearing Mr Ellsum play before he becomes huge can head to Georges Wine Bar on a Friday night.
He also currently has three entries in the Australian online ninemsn Starburst Soundcheck song competition.
By Merryl Miller
merrylm@thechronicle.com.au - The Chronicle 24 May 2005
Discography
Winds Of Change
Photos
Bio
Influenced by melodic blusey, classical rock bands such as Deep Purple and Thin Lizzy and guitarists such as Santana, Gary Moore and Joe Satriani the resulting original music is melodic and innovative with a distinctive vocal presence. William's music stands apart by taking the rock/pop melody of the 70's, 80's and 90's and creating a sound that is immediately recognisable in its own right. Having a classical base, the love of the guitar as an instrument becomes the central theme to the music. Audiences enjoy the diversity of a gig, being able to sit contemplatively and enjoy a moving acoustic piece to bopping along with a rock riff that remains in your head long after the show.
I consider myself a guitarist/songwriter first and foremost, rather than a singer. My goal is to write music for artists and work with them as a session and touring musician if the need arises.
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