Local talent takes centre stage at Kool Skools 2025

Pictured from left: Albury High School students, Maddie Kelly, Charlie Manwaring, Freddie Tari, Blaise Keighran and Josie Alexander at Empire Music Studios in Melbourne.

Now in its 16th year, the Kool Skools project continues to empower young musicians from across Albury to write, record and perform their own original music. Supported by AlburyCity, the project gives students from local schools the opportunity to record in a professional studio and experience the full creative process, from songwriting and production through to performing live.

This year, 24 young people from seven schools across the Albury region took part, recording 11 original tracks at Empire Music Studios ‘Studio 52’ in Melbourne. The result is a vibrant and diverse album that captures the passion and creativity of our region’s next generation of artists.

“Kool Skools is an incredible way for young people to experience the real world of music-making,” said Albury Deputy Mayor Cr Jessica Kellahan, who will help launch the album. “It gives them a genuine taste of the industry, building their confidence, creativity and collaboration skills, and giving them a platform to share their work with the wider community.”

Built on long-standing partnerships between AlburyCity, local schools, parents and dedicated music teachers, Kool Skools continues to deliver opportunities that inspire and enrich young people’s learning experiences while strengthening community connections.

“After 16 years, Kool Skools has become part of the fabric of Albury’s youth and music scene,” Cr Kellahan added. “We’re incredibly proud of the relationships and talent this project continues to nurture.”

The Kool Skools 2025 album will be available on Spotify following the launch. Everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy live performances, meet the young artists, and celebrate another outstanding year of local music achievement.