A free scheme launches tonight in Witney aimed at giving young musicians a voice. Tim Hughes finds out more about the project

It may be the soundtrack of youthful rebellion, but new music all too often seems like the preserve of the wealthy and well-connected.

As many an aspiring artist has discovered, it can be hard to make music if you can’t afford the kit, the lessons, the studio, or even just the time. Young artists in Oxfordshire, however, are making themselves heard thanks to a scheme designed to give them a voice, despite their lack of hard cash and industry contacts.

It’s called ‘Beat This’, and it starts this month in Witney, before being rolled out in Oxford and Banbury.

The free scheme is aimed at singers, writers and potential producers aged 14-25, with a particular emphasis on urban music. And it is being launched with a free gig tonight by local artists at Fat Lil’s in Witney. It will feature sets by Laotian singer-songwriter Phousa, who is based in West Oxfordshire; Oxford rappers Enzyme and Rawz, performance poet Steve Larkin and DJ Andy Hill – who is also the course co-ordinator.

Andy, a music industry professional who is best known as one-half of doom-hip-hop duo Death of Hi Fi, said the show would give interested young people a chance to see what previous participants had achieved – and he is inviting them to make their first steps in the music industry by reviewing the show.

“It’s a masterclass for young people who feel inspired to make music or perform but have no way of getting involved.

“Our priority is to engage singers and upcoming musicians who want to improve their skills but are not in full-time education or training, do not have the means to pay for other courses, and have no access to people in the music industry.”

The 12-week course of creative music training sessions, is being held at The Hub, in Bridge Street, delivered by Fusion Arts with funding from Youth Music, Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council. Andy, who describes himself as a “self-taught DJ, producer and show off” will be supported by learning assistant Ran Michaeli and visiting artists.

Participants will receive masterclasses in lyric writing, music production, performance skills and staging events – including their own. They will also be offered the chance to gain Arts Awards Accreditation – a nationally-recognised creative arts certificate.

“It’s about inspiring people to be creative and also gaining a valuable qualification,” adds Andy, who lives in West End, Witney.

“They learn skills and get access to music experts who will come in and help them write, produce, organise and perform. And if they do well, they can go on to other things.”

He adds: “The launch party is a key part of the course as it will get potential participants thinking critically and allow them to ask about the masterclasses. But is free, open to anyone and should be a really good night.”

CHECK IT OUT
The Beat It launch party takes place tonight at Fat Lil’s, Witney, from 7pm to 9pm. Entry is free.
The course itself starts at The Hub, in Bridge Street, Witney, next Thursday (on January 23). For information, email lizzy@fusion-arts.org, go to facebook.com/beatthismasterclass or call 01865 245735.