WHEN Felicity Kircher attends the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January, it will be her 12th year at the iconic event, but this time she’ll be performing as a finalist in the festival’s Star Maker competition.
The 20-year-old country musician from Tingalpa first performed at the festival at age eight.
Growing up with musical parents, Felicity learnt to play piano and violin from four years old and guitar from eight years old.
With a background in musical theatre, she said she “fell into” country music after entering a country music competition at a young age.
“I think country is a part of my roots as an artist,” she said.
“I love the songwriting aspect and the storytelling.
“I use that in the music I create now.”
Felicity grew up on the stage, from performing in musicals to gigging and busking, and she said these experiences had helped her develop her performance ability.
“It always felt bizarre as a younger person, it was always strange being in different worlds, going from this kid who went to school, to the stage and bringing out that side of myself,” she said.
“It’s always a place I felt at home, though, and really confident and comfortable.
“It’s something I’ve always loved and something my family has always been really supportive of.”
Inspired by the likes of Troy Cassar-Daley, Keith Urban, James Taylor, the Eagles, and the Beatles, Felicity developed a sound that has led her to perform on stages at Tamworth, the Gympie Country Music Muster, and a recent highlight, the Sydney Opera House alongside Kasey Chambers.
She had long been a fan and follower of the Star Maker competition and applied this year on a whim, half an hour before entries closed, before being announced as one of 10 finalists to take the stage next January.
“I’m pinching myself, it’s hard to believe, because so many wonderful Australian artists have been a part of the whole competition,” she said.
“I feel so grateful and a lot of love for the nine other finalists.
“I’m really excited to get on the stage in January and share that experience with everyone.”
The 10 finalists will perform two songs each at the 2025 Toyota Star Maker Grand Final, which offers over a $100k prize pool.
Felicity has new music she’s excited to share with the world.
Visit felicitykirchermusic.com to find out more, and to hear some of her music.
