OUR PROJECTS
ArtsTrain Academies
Our Academies have been a consistent thread through 15 years of ArtsTrain, right back to our beginnings in Bromley, in response to a survey commissioned by the local authority where young people stated that they wanted more musical activities.
From the start we wanted to focus on participants creating their own new music, as we believe the process is empowering and enables self-expression. We believe all young people should have the chance to create their own music, of any genre, and feel a sense of pride in sharing their work with others.
“Here you’re surrounded by people who have the same passion as you. Whenever I leave a session, I feel like I’ve gained more energy because I’ve been surrounded by others who have the same energy as me.”
Our Academies offering young people from Bromley and Bexley the opportunity to create original music with Music Leaders, stepping outside of their ‘musical comfort zones’ to create something new. Local schools refer young people to our Academies, who meet for two hours once a week.
“My favourite part was being able to make music with people you’d never met before. It gives you different perspectives on both how music can be written and what types of music you can make with others.”
In the sessions we work on experimenting with different instruments, improving confidence in vocals, growing self-esteem with stage presence and musicality, and working as a group to create new music. We perform across showcases, festivals and gigs, with plenty of opportunities throughout the year for the young people to share what they’re been working on.
Hear about the programme from our young people below:
Are you a musician or songwriter aged 13-17?
Our free ArtsTrain Academy songwriting programme runs throughout the year.
We run sessions in Bromley at The Churchill Theatre on Monday evenings and in Bexley at The Exchange, Erith on Thursday evenings.
In small groups, you’ll work with our team of industry professional music leaders - skilled instrumentalists, songwriters, composers and vocal leaders. As well as creating original music, you’ll have the opportunity to perform it live throughout the year.
We welcome newcomers at certain times of year. If you would like to enquire about joining, please get in touch below: