Take a chance to go further
Hot gossip from the local music scene
Hit the Road is accepting applications to join the next batch of participants in the initiative. The project works with young musicians taking them on a small tour of Scotland to refine and develop live performance skills and give them an insight into the life of a touring musician.
The young musicians will be able to take a series of workshops with ‘ music industry professionals’ who will school them in all aspects of touring. Presumably this doesn’t include drinking copiously or eating takeaways at 2 in the morning on the way home after the gig. The deadline to apply is Thursday, August 31.
It’s always fantastic to be able to access grant funding as a creative and there’s a funding initiative specifically for young creatives currently available from Creative Scotland in partnership with Young Scot. The ‘ Nurturing Talent - Time to Shine Fund’ aims to support young people aged 14- 20 who are interested in developing their skills in a number of creative areas. Anyone aged 14- 20, living in Scotland can apply. Both individuals and groups can apply for funding ranging from £ 50- £ 600.
In the case of group applications, details of all group members should also be provided and the majority of the group should be aged between 14 and 20 years old.
The fund provides financial support to help nurture talent in a number ways. From recording a demo with your band, to putting on an exhibition of your own artwork, and lots more in between. The deadlines for applications are August 28 and October 9.
I heard some really excellent performances at last weekend’s Ayr and District Flowershow, the revamped event took place at Ayr Racecourse and although it was a wet weekend it didn’t dampen the spirits of those there.
The music on offer was hugely enjoyable and performances from the mighty Ayrshire Fiddle Orchestra went down well as did sets from Kilmarnock singer songwriter Kieran Robinson.
Singer Nicola Cassells performed admirably even whilst battling with the elements outside in the rain. Young singer Daniel Munoz gave a confident debut performance and talented quartet Effemeras were a real highlight their four- piece harmonies were delightful.
Another of the highlights were musicians from Opportunities in Retirement. From folk groups to traditional and country dance groups the OIR musicians were a treat in every way. Led by the venerable Pat Kane the musicians brought joy, good chat and effortless quality to the event. A fine weekend of live music.
Memphis R& B Band and a host of other Ayrshire groups met last Sunday at Prestwick Cricket Club. The event featured seven bands and was open to the public in an effort to raise funds for the Ayrshire Hospice. More than £ 1000 was raised and rganiser Ian McAdam was delighted with the turnout as this was a charity close to his heart, and the Hospice has recently supported a family friend. Bands included on the day were Vague Reality, Debi Q Band, Audioclass, Badstone, Memphis R& B, Trunk Monkey and Wildcard. Well done to them all. Until next week, @ LittleFire