Volunteers, supported by the Youth Service, have been running a popular live music session on a Wednesday evening at the Colchester Townhouse, however volunteers have varying levels of music expertise and use borrowed equipment. We want to buy a set of music and studio equipment for the Townhouse to store on-site. This will provide access to professional level equipment to inspire young people, transform their music experience and encourage more young people to engage with this opportunity. It will make the sessions more reliable and self-sufficient and allow for a larger presence within the community. We will help ensure sustainability of the project by training the volunteers and young people in using the equipment, running collaborative sessions and giving access to professional musicians at 6 masterclass sessions held over six months. We plan to celebrate with a public concert in June in a large local venue. All crowdfunding contributors will be invited to attend for free.

What we'll deliver:

• Buy music equipment for weekly jam sessions & gigs
• Run 6 music masterclass sessions for young people & volunteers
• Put on a public concert to celebrate young people's music making

Why it's a great idea:

Safe space for young people The current sessions are popular and provide a much-needed space for teenagers to collaborate and create music together. The only opportunity is to gig in pubs which is not suitable for younger teenagers and a vulnerable environment for the older teenagers. Grow the audience Having our own music equipment instead of relying on the goodwill of others will make the group more sustainable and open to more young people. We will be able to promote the group more widely, grow attendance with a more reliable base and expand further into the local community. Musical Development Training our team of committed volunteers will ensure young people get the best possible outcome out of attending and show them a professional set up. We want the Townhouse to be a beacon of excellence in live music for young people and demonstrate the power of music in reaching and engaging with youth. This will help develop potential music careers.

Steps to get it done:

• Purchase music equipment & arrange storage within Townhouse
• Book masterclass sessions
• Advertise & promote gig nights & masterclass dates
• Masterclass 1: Technical set up & Running Open Mic nights
• Masterclass 2: Band Leadership
• Masterclass 3: Songwriting
• Masterclass 4: Using technology
• Masterclass 5: Intro to the Music Industry
• Masterclass 6: Studio Sessions
• Celebratory performance

We are keen to create and sustain links to the wider community and welcome organised visits from amateur and professional musicians (subject to checks).