14/03/16
Funding from Barclays’ community investment programme has supported the appointment of a new studio engineer and the introduction of a new qualification at local music charity Soundcheck.
Barclays donated more than £9,000 to assist the charity in employing Luke Williams who will work with local solo artists and bands in the charity’s recording studioto produce CDs and make videos for YouTube to help raise their profiles in the local music scene.
Mr Williams has been a member of Soundcheck for eight yearsbut has been volunteering in the recording studio for the last four years.
Barclays’ donation will also give the charity’s members the opportunity to develop their musical skills through the Level 2 Open Awards qualification.
The awards offer broad and flexible learning across a wide range of creative disciplines. The qualifications combine practical experience with theoretical knowledge and members will have the opportunity to select specific areas of interest, such as stage management and sound recording, to help them gain specialist skills.
Soundcheck is a local charity which promotes young musicians in the islands by producing regular live events and studio recordings. It is an Isle of Man Government Department of Education and Children- run project that operates out of the Douglas Youth Arts Centre, Castletown, Ramsey and Peel Youth Centre’s.
“Soundcheck is a place for young people to express their creativity through music,” said Mr Williams.
“Since becoming a registered charity we have been able to improve our facilities which have made a big difference to our members who come to us for advice and support with organising gigs, recording and as a place to rehearse.”
“This donation from Barclays means we can provide even more support for young musicians in the island and give them the opportunity to gain relevant and valuable qualifications which is vital to help them achieve their ambitions in the music industry.”
Ian Pilley, Barclays Isle of Man, said: “Barclays is committed to helping young people reach their goals and fulfil their potential. The work that Luke will be doing as part of the training and support project at Soundcheck will be of huge benefit to young musicians in the Isle of Man so we’re very pleased to support him.”