BEHIND THE SCENES: MUSIC COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

Following two weeks of learning the ropes of music theory and production, alongside some incredible collaborative work, our Music Course has come to a close. The project, funded by Manchester Adult Education Service, invited nearly 20 participants into the Reform Radio space to create their own tracks to be played live on the radio, as well as encouraging them to work together and fine tune their own musical styles.

Listen to the collective’s final radio show below, showcasing the tunes they created throughout the course.

We chatted to participant, Sarah, about what she got up to on the programme and what her plans are moving forward.

Introduce yourself (name, pronouns, and what you’re up to at the moment/hobbies etc).

My name’s Sarah and my pronouns are she/her. I’m producing bangers and staying positive.

Describe yourself in 3 words.

I’d describe myself as a legend, party starter and confident out of my head.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Now, this one may shock you, but if I could only listen to one album for the rest of my life it would probably be ‘Harry’s House’ by Harry Styles. The reason I’d listen to that particular album is because it reminds me of how beautiful life can be.

Did you have much musical experience before? If so, what’s your favourite thing about making music?

I’d say I had some music skills prior to doing the course. My favourite thing about making music is how I can use it as evidence that I am capable of creating something amazing.

What prompted you to get involved with the Music Course?

I’ve been to Reform before and the support and acknowledgement you receive from them amazes me. So being able to be part of a Reform Radio course was enough for me to want to get involved.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?

Well, deep down I had some doubts but I knew I loved music and I knew I had something special to share. As soon as I walked through the doors of Reform Radio, it was like they thought a star had entered the room and their belief in me quietened my inner voices of incapability. I now know after completing the course that I am capable and I am appreciated.

What will you take from the Music Course moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards?

From the course, I will take the knowledge that the voices in my head are chatting cheddar and I am good enough.

Do you have any musical role models that inspire your practice and why?

My musical role model is Fred Again.. all day long, I just love how moving his music is; it’s proper feel good music.

Who would be your dream artist/producer to collaborate with?

I’d, of course, have to say Fred Again.. but, also, I’d love to work with Four Tet and Dom Dolla.

What’s your go-to album to listen to after a long day?

My go-to album to listen to is probably my own music, to be honest. I don’t have a full album, however I do listen to all the mixes and songs I’ve created and feel so proud.

To find out about our future free creative courses, you can head to our Projects page, or reach out to our lovely Engagement team at projects@reformradio.co.uk.