“Rock Band Academy”, a brand new venture to help aspiring musicians, is being launched by Bath & North East Somerset Council – the first of its kind for the area.
State of the art technology has been set up at the Riverside Youth Hub, Bath, to create a “jam hub”. This will enable up to 24 young musicians to work creatively within a contemporary music setting on drums, guitar, bass, keyboard, percussion or vocals at the same time, with each being in total control of their own input.
The system has already proved hugely successful in other areas around the country; with many schools adopting the technology, as well as music services, to support students in both primary and secondary schools.
Councillor Paul Crossley (Lib-Dem, Southdown), Leader of Council, said: “Bath & North East Somerset Council is committed to providing activities and opportunities that help young people to make a positive difference to their lives and communities.
“We hope to make the Rock Band Academy available to all students but particularly to engage with hard-to-reach young people through specifically-tailored programmes which will run during the day.”
The Rock Band Academy will be officially launched at 12noon on Friday 6 July in the presence of special guest tutor Craig Blundell, of the world-renowned music manufacturer Roland. There will be a pre-arranged band clinic for local children from 1.30pm-2.30pm and an open event for children and young people from 5.30pm-7.30pm.
Craig Blundell is one of Roland’s international clinicians. His profile has been steadily growing over the past few years and is now in high demand to perform all over the world either recording, performing live or on drum clinics. He writes, produces and remixes for various acts and labels under the moniker of Dr oKtoPus and currently plays live with David Cross from King Crimson and neo-progressive rock supergroup Frost.
Rainer Dolz, Manager of Music for Bath & North East Somerset Council, said: “We are immensely lucky to have Craig Blundell made available by Roland UK to deliver a series of workshops and master classes on 6th July.
“His clinics continue to get amazing reviews as he constantly seems to push the boundaries of his instrument and inspire players with his unique perspective and creativity. His master classes are a must, not just for drummers but for people wanting to see technology at its very best being pushed to the limits.”
It is anticipated that the Rock Band Academy will begin running regular sessions and classes from September 2012.