A NEW project is allowing young people in Huddersfield to test out their musical talents.
The Music Maker scheme, based at Paddock Learning Centre, gives young people aged 16 to 19 the chance to try their hand at a range of music skills – for free.
At the centre’s studio, budding singers, producers and instrumentalists get chance to use the latest computer music software, experiment with DJ-ing and freestyling under the supervision of experienced music tutors.
The workshops have been running from January and will end in April, but it’s not too late to get involved.
There are also hopes to continue the good work started by the project.
The Music Maker project has been funded by Kirklees Young People’s Service, through a partnership with Paddock Learning Centre and production company Poperetta.
Poperetta is a social enterprise scheme based in Paddock, which aims to give people the skills they need to work in creative industries.
It is aimed at helping young people who are not in work, training or education to make their own music and develop creative skills, which will help them on their way.
Project co-ordinator Pat Fulgoni said: “It’s a great opportunity for people to drop in and see just how straight forward it is to get stuck in to music making.
“They are doing some good work at Paddock Community Centre and I think the Music Maker course is a useful addition and especially relevant to the 16 to 19 age group.”
Even if music isn’t for you, Paddock Learning Centre is a registered charity and offers a wide range of learning opportunities – from digital photography to web design, beginners computing and office computer skills.
Paddock Centre Manager Simon Ashbee said:
“We know from local residents that there are very few opportunities like this for young people.
“We believe that this is a great opportunity for them to learn the skills to develop their musical ideas.”
For more information on the project, call 01484 431400 or visit www.musicmaker.me or www.myspace.com/musicmakerhuddersfield
