Musings … Rebecca Watts is sharing her passion for music with Hobsons Bay youth.By Cassie Maher
WILLIAMSTOWN resident Rebecca Watts is helping young Hobsons Bay music lovers realise their dreams.
Miss Watts’ efforts were recognised by the council last week when she received a certificate of appreciation for her “outstanding contribution to the youth culture of Hobsons Bay”.
“I was really shocked when I found out,” the 20-year-old said.
“I was never expecting anything like this, but at the same time it’s good to get some recognition.”
Two years ago, fresh out of year 12, Miss Watts was ready to begin her musical career. She began performing blues and jazz-inspired acoustic gigs at the Breizoz Creperie in Williamstown.
“I had a lot of musical friends and I thought I’d invite them to come and sing as well because it’s really hard for young people to get into the music industry,” she said.
And so Miss Watts’ non-profit group, Musings, was born and Sundays at Breizoz became popular.
“I’d line up about two other people as well as myself to play on a Sunday afternoon,” she said. “The response was fantastic.”
Williamstown Ward councillor Angela Altair nominated Miss Watts and believes the music sessions at Breizoz have become a beacon for Hobsons Bay youth.
“Rebecca is a real role model for the young people in our community,” Cr Altair said. “She’s really inspired the music scene in the West.”
Cr Altair is also impressed by Miss Watts’ involvement with other community projects.
“Rebecca helped to establish council’s Youth Voice Initiative, which helps harness local talent and bring youth issues to the attention of council,” she said. “As well as Musings, she has set a series of art shows calling Sightings.
“She’s definitely a young entrepreneur.”
Musings at Breizoz was put on hold last year while Miss Watts holidayed in India, but she plans to get the sessions up and running again soon. For now though, the songwriter and self-taught pianist is looking forward to performing at the upcoming Williamstown Festival.
“There’s a high demand for music performances in Hobsons Bay at the moment,” Miss Watts said. “Every bit of exposure helps.”
