Singer/songwriter Irene Halloran had been announced among the line-up of artists set to perform at the 2020 Under The Western Skies Music Festival.
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The festival was later cancelled due to COVID-19.
"I was really disappointed when the festival was cancelled, I guess you have in in your mind in the weeks leading up to it and especially being able to share originals, it's what you write and practice for years for," she said.
Ms Halloran is a familiar face to Dubbo, having performed at services events including last years Zoocustic at Taronga Western Plains Zoo. She has also featured on Dubbo initiative, SOMAD's online series Lust for Livestreaming.
"I live in Mudgee at the moment, I haven't performed in Dubbo an enormous number of times but I would love to," she said.
"It's a strange time to have so many venues closed, I miss being able to go somewhere and check out someone I haven't seen or a good local band. I think we will appreciate things a lot more when we are able to live a normal lifestyle again."
Ms Halloran said a positive of COVID-19 was that life's difficult times inspired her writing.
"It's a way to process emotions and make something beautiful from times that are painful or hard to get through," she said.
"Though I've written a few songs about some of the people I have loved too, they keep the good memories alive. I use a lot of imagery from nature also. I love words that paint a landscape and I subconsciously blend that with a person or experience."
Ms Halloran said now was also the perfect time for aspiring artists to flourish.
"Practice. A lot. Daily if possible. You have to put the time in, sometimes you won't feel like it and it will feel like work, but every minute is time toward improving your skill. If you sing, do scales and look after your voice, though I'm far from perfect, everyone has their vices.
"Also, embrace the uniqueness of yourself. There is no other you, don't try to copy or imitate. We all have our idols that influence us as we develop, but the most valuable asset you are offering people is you. Perfectly unique and that is incredibly valuable."