Finding your voice and telling your story
“Great way to network, gain skills to progress your career; and an amazing bunch of people!” Anon.
Our Manchester Artist Development Day in partnership with Brighter Sound took place on 16th April at Band on the Wall. Attendees explored how to find their artist voice and tell their story through insightful workshops delivered by Ellen Beth Abdi and Oli Bentley. The day also featured NK-OK from Blue Lab Beats in conversation with Kinaya Said Ibrahim and jam sessions facilitated by Mara Cruz and Kemani Anderson.
Key takeaways from the day included the importance of -
finding the space and time to make mistakes
feeding your audience's mind as well as their ears
planning longterm - thinking campaign not cover
striving to make a sound that no one has heard before
Programme Manager Helena Summerfield said:
“The Artist Development Day gave participants the opportunity to gain valuable industry insights and ask questions in a safe and supportive environment. The afternoon jam session in the Copper Bar had a fantastic vibe especially when NK-OK took to the stage with his drum machine. It was great to hear people playing together after making new connections during the day and it was clear that the jam could have continued all night!”
“Absolutely loved the Jazz North Artist Development Day. Fantastic to meet like-minded people and to learn from the creative journey of others. It was a friendly, welcoming and supportive atmosphere, and the jam was a lot of fun!”
The final jam session, one of several facilitated by Mara Cruz and Kemani Anderson.
Other quotes from artists/presenters:
“Remember in the midst of business and writing music to text your friend. Stay connected. When you take the conversation out of music, humanity is essential”. NK-OK on how to stay grounded and connected outside of music for your mental health and wellbeing.
“The ‘no’s’ were massive inspirations. Making anger into beauty. The ‘no’s’ will still happen but the doors will keep opening if you will it and your friends will have your back”. NK-OK on how to make your own space and community in the music industry.
“Make as much music as you can and try not to edit or judge it or think about where it belongs. Being on your own, having space to make mistakes and create with no pressure and gigging tunes before they’re released helps with arrangements. Be on the scene and put yourself out there”. Ellen Beth Abdi on finding your sound and giving yourself time and space as a musician to grow and create.
“It’s not about bums on seats, it’s about emotional engagement and connection. Everything you put out should be an extension of you. There’s a personality to show. Create a visual world across different channels, try to find your niche”. Oli Bently on visual signals and creating a unique identity as an artist.
