VAMP (Vocal Athlete Mastery Program) is Performance Studios’ senior performance and artist development program for singers aged 18 and over in Brisbane. Members build four gig-ready sets and learn the performance, branding and business skills to work as professional singers.

VAMP is open to singers aged 18 and over, from any studio or vocal coach. Entry is by audition, and current Elite Performance Team members book a re-entry interview instead. You don’t need performance experience, but you do need to be ready to work at a professional level. We look for potential, discipline, teachability and the independence to prepare your material at home.

Yes. All VAMP members must be taking regular private singing lessons while in the program, with Performance Studios or any other teacher. VAMP doesn’t teach vocal technique. It focuses on performance, gigging and artist development, so your private lessons keep your technique strong while VAMP turns it into a career.

VAMP runs every Saturday during school terms, [9:30am – 2:00pm, TBC], at Performance Studios (Loganholme), plus about five extra rehearsals a year before major performances.

VAMP is $140 per week, or $135 per week ($1,350 per term) when you pay for the full term. Guest coaches and masterclasses are covered unless we tell you otherwise. Extra costs may include:

• team jacket: $105–$125, only when you need a new one

• costumes: self-funded, depending on the show

• backing tracks for your sets: usually a small cost per track

• photoshoot: an additional cost

VAMP members build four 45-minute sets across the year: background and lounge, function and party, a feature set with an original song, and a Christmas set. Every set works with or without a live band. You’ll perform them at the Term 1 Mini Showcase, the Semester 1 Showcase, the Christmas Show, studio-booked events and gigs you book yourself.

Beyond performance, VAMP teaches the skills of a working singer:

• reading and writing chord charts, and the Nashville Number System

• sourcing legal backing tracks

• songwriting: lyrics, chord progressions and melody (no experience needed)

• refining your artist brand and profile

• the business side: ABN, insurance, invoicing, pricing your gigs, and setting money aside for tax and super

Plan to learn about one new song a week at home, so Saturdays can be spent refining, performing and getting feedback. Reliable attendance is essential, because your group numbers and Show Lab slots depend on you. Absences should only be for sickness or exceptional circumstances, and you’ll need to catch up before the next week.