A youth project is calling on young creatives to share their music and get it heard. #DoYouMakeMusic, launched by Music Education Islington last year, is looking for fledgling musicians to platform at their second Lockdown Live event.
The project asks artists aged 13-25 to upload a piece of homemade music by Thursday 25 March, following the instructions on the website. In advance of submission, applicants can get advice and assistance from the many #DoYouMakeMusic organisations across the borough.
Once launched, the material will be broadcast live at the project’s second Lockdown Live session, or included in the #DoYouMakeMusic playlist.
The Lockdown Live #2 event will take place as a Youtube livestream on 9 April from 5-6pm. The event will be hosted by British hip-hop pioneer Jonzi D, with contributions from emerging musician Antonette.
Everyone who uploads a piece of music to the project will be given access to workshops and development opportunities to further a career in music.
Kieran Butler, 21, got involved in the #DoYouMakeMusic project this month and has already seen the benefits: “I think the great thing about this project is that it is a safe place for everyone – just shine your light. […] Bring what you can to this table because it will be appreciated and heard, and your community will congratulate you for it.”
A proficient musician across multiple instruments, Kieran’s style is wide-ranging and diverse. He has been DJing Caribbean music for many years, with an interest in Afroswing, jazz and classical influences.
The past year has been difficult for Kieran as a musician and producer, but this project has allowed him to develop his skills and make crucial contacts in the industry: “This current climate has definitely been a struggle […] having a project like this to work on has definitely helped me get back to work.”
Kieran was first introduced to the project through the Music in Secondary Schools Trust (MiSST), and is looking ahead to a future where he himself can support young musicians: “One thing I will continue to do for the next five years, and hopefully the next 50 years, is change the lives of the younger generation.
“Music will always shine through. For me, I have noticed that no matter what mood you’re in, music will always be there.”
Music Education Islington, the group behind the project, is a partnership between Guildhall School of Music & Drama and Islington Youth Council. Established in 2018, the partnership hopes to provide the community with world-class music education and resources, ensuring any child can develop musical skills regardless of their background.
Dr Mirjam James, manager at Music Education Islington, believes this partnership opens up a wealth of opportunities for young people in our borough: “Music is important to every community; what is special about Islington is that we are lucky to have a number of fantastic venues located in Islington, including but not limited to LSO St Luke’s, King’s Place, Union Chapel.
“Islington’s diversity reflects also in its music. Bringing our music together is the best way to bring people together.”
For Mirjam, this project is a great opportunity for young musicians to gain valuable expertise and express themselves. In her view, there is no reason not to get involved: “Just go for it! It’s a really good opportunity, and we deliberately didn’t turn it into a contest. Everyone’s work will be recognised and included in the live event and/or the playlist.”
