A new project is being launched in Derry to give young people the chance to be in a band.
The McLaughlin brothers are back at Studio 2 with their ‘Messin with Music’ project appealing to all 14-17 year-olds with a passion for music and playing in a band to take part in the annual week-long project that will see participants playing in front of family and friends in a showcase concert at the Skeoge Arts Studio.
The music project is under the auspices of Greater Shantallow Community Arts and supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
The two-man dedicated team delivering the project are brothers Caolán and Denis McLaughin.
Both are BA music graduates, whilst Denis also has a HND in music production.
The brothers are singer-songwriters and multi-instrumentalists, with Denis being the guitar master and Caolán being the keys master.
Denis said they are looking for teenagers with a love for music.
“If you’re aged 14-17 years old and have a passion for learning to play music in a band, complete beginner or not, then this week-long project is for you.
“Apply now and if you’re lucky enough to secure a place, get to the newly-refurbished Studio 2 at Skeoge Industrial Estate, from Monday 3rd till Sunday 9th October.”
The week-long programme schedule at Studio 2 runs from: Monday 3rd - Wednesday 5th October, 6–9.15pm, and then Saturday and Sunday, 8-9 October from 12-4pm.
Denis McLaughlin described it as a ‘hands-on’ programme with a nice twist at the end.
“The grand finale aka The 'Lazy Sunday Afternoon' Concert on 9th October will see participants perform a song written by them and their fellow band members over the course of the week and they will be given the platform to rock out whatever it is they do. With this being their showcase concert, family and friends will be invited too.”
The start of the programme will see participants split into two working bands for the week so places for the programme are limited.
The main aim of ‘Messin' with the Music’ is to empower young people by developing their confidence through practical music-making, understanding the processes of this, while also contributing to their overall social, educational and personal development.
Skills include composition, song writing, theory, performance, impro-visation, aural awareness, musicianship, and rhythm and music business.
Participation on the programme is free.
The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday, September 29, with the project beginning on Monday, October 3.
Email messinwiththemusic@gmail.com for an application form or go to Facebook ‘messinwith themusic’ and drop them a line.
Or you can text 'MWTM ap form' not forgetting to include your email address to 07969543628; or alternatively Telephone or email GSCA at Studio 2 on info@gscaderry.com or Tel: 02871358750
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