Oxford,
16
February
2016
|
12:37
Europe/London

Youngsters rock out with cutting-edge technology

The youngsters are using the JamPod digital system to write songs, play and record in a ‘silent studio’ environment at the County Music Service’s Rock School. It is believed to be the first example of the technology being used in this way.

The newly installed JamPod Academy features electric drumkits, keyboards, guitar effects and microphones arranged into five bands and connected to a digital mixing system.

Up to 30 headphone-wearing musicians can rehearse in one room – all with access to their teacher and sound engineer. The equipment was funded through an Arts Council grant, following a successful bid by the Music Service.

New possibilities

Music Development Leader for the County Music Service Nick Wright said: “It’s completely transformed the way we operate and opened up new possibilities for young people – both in terms of ways of working and what they can achieve musically.

“As you can imagine, trying to rehearse with multiple bands in one room – even the same building – has its limitations, but our JamPod Academy enables many more young people to take part and develop their skills while experiencing the thrill of making their own music with friends.”

The council's Cabinet Member for Cultural and Community Services Lorraine Lindsay-Gale said: “This is a really exciting development and a great example of the innovative work going on at our County Music Service. Clearly the Rock School is going from strength to strength and the young people have really taken to the new technology.”

Rock School sessions

There are regular JamPod Academy sessions offering the chance for musicians of all ages and abilities to get together in bands to write, record and perform their own music:

  • Junior Rockschool for musicians aged 9-13, Tuesdays 5pm-6:30pm
  • Senior Rockschool for musicians aged 11-18, Tuesdays 7:30pm-9pm

 

All activities take place at Oxfordshire County Music Service, Centre for Music, Bayswater Road, Oxford, OX3 9FF.

For more details about JamPod Academyvisit www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/jampod