DRUM machines, dynamic digital effects and plenty of high-tech software are all in the mix as part of a bold new, boundary-pushing musical initiative for youngsters.
Scribble - New Media Orchestra, has been put together by Kendal-based charity MusicLinks, backed by Youth Music’s Open Programme, which distributes £2 million annually to fund music-making activities for children and young people across the UK.
Through a series of adventurous sound workshops, Scribble will make use of a selection of unusual instruments, including circuit bent Theremins (a pioneering electronic musical instrument), drum machines, a variety of freeware, digital effects as well as MusicLinks new mobile sensory unit – to develop original new music.
Sessions - open to 13-18-year-olds of all abilities and free - take place on Saturdays May 22, June 19 and July 3 at Kendal’s Castle Street Community Centre, with regular workshops also staged at Sandgate and Sandside schools. Additional sessions will be held at Queen Katherine School, Monkey Business Youth Club, at Witherslack, as well as slots with Young Carers and Impact Housing.
Meanwhile, on July 17, the workshop will shift to Kendal’s Brewery Arts Centre as part of the all-day live art event, Green Door Rising.
MusicLinks director Andy Halsey said the idea behind the innovative project was to get music back to when it was not recorded and was in the moment.
“Scribbling is shorthand for improvisation and experimentation,” described Andy, a singer/songwriter in his own right.
He said it takes its cue from radical record producer and writer Bill Drummond's idea of a world in which recorded music doesn’t exist. He added: “Scribble is basically looking to reinvent music from stratch.”
Andy said that the workshop sessions will build towards a performance in May 2011.
Traditional instruments such as flute and guitars will be used alongside MacBook computers and field sounds that are manipulated, all aimed at creating a series of new compositions.
For further information and to book a workshop place telephone 01539-742626.
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