Gemma Bradley Wins First Prize in Songwriting Contest

The Christie Hennessy Songwriting contest takes place in memory of one of Tralee’s most famous sons; Christie Hennessy. 2018 marked the 8th year of the competition and saw BIMM Dublin Songwriting student Gemma Bradley scooping the top prize of €1000 for her song ‘Berserk’.

After being whittled down from nearly 300 song entries, ten finalists were selected to perform one song in front of a panel of judges during the live final of the contest in The Ashe Hotel, Tralee, Co. Kerry, with Commercial Modern Music Degree student Gemma being presented with the prize cheque courtesy of BIMM associates IMRO. 

“I am so thrilled to be named the winner of this years Christie Hennessy competition.” Said Gemma. “I still can’t believe it! Thanks so much to all of the judges for selecting me. It’s been such a surreal experience. I am planning on using the prize money to record some new music in the coming months.”

In the wake of her recent success, Gemma released a new single ‘Hollow Heartbeat’ and richly layered and upbeat contrast to her winning track in the contest. 

A runner up prize of €300 was also presented on the night to indie folk songstress and fellow BIMM Dublin student Leila Jane for her track ‘Look Away From Our Creation’, proving the campus harbours an impressively high standard of songwriting talent year upon year. 

A huge congratulations goes out to both Gemma and Leila for their success at the Christie Hennessy competition, and we look forward to hearing future news and releases from the talented young songwriters.

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Are you interested in studying a BA (Hons) Degree in Commercial Modern Music – Songwriting, like Gemma did, click here.