Musicians get friendly ear
A new support network for musicians is being launched to help develop original music.
Arts Council Nelson committee member Axel de Maupeou said the plan was to ‘‘develop and support a regional network of musicians with a focus on original music’’.
‘‘In the region ... there’s a focus on school students ... for regional [older] musicians it becomes really hard to get access to resources, gig opportunities and networks.
‘‘This is about giving an opportunity to start a conversation with people who have the resources, skills and connections and to share these with the wider community.’’
The initiative kicks off with a hui at the Basement Cafe in August, where several presenters will have five minutes to share an idea, project, resources or opportunities with musicians.
De Maupeou said an example of something to share could be a recording space at a low rate or free of charge.
He said presenters included NZ On Air head of music and radio David Ridler and representatives from Fresh FM, Nelson School of Music and NMIT.
‘‘We’re very lucky to have David Ridler from NZ On Air, it says a lot that they accepted to get someone to attend the hui on a Saturday and David brings a wealth of experience.
‘‘It doesn’t have everyday that we can have a face to face conversation with someone like that.‘‘
Also being planned was the region’s first original music competition ‘‘Titans of Tunes’’ on September 9, de Maupeou said.
The hui is being held at Basement Cafe in Trafalgar Square on August 5 from 11:30am to 1:30pm. Free to all, and it’s also possible to make your own 5 minute ideasharing presentation on the day.