New Sounds Academy
Thank you to everyone who has applied to, or asked about, our New Sounds Academy programme for 2026. We have been delighted with the responses we’ve been getting. As a reminder, via New Sounds Academy 2026 4 care experienced young people will each receive:
- 50 hours of flexible tuition and mentoring from multiple tutors, producers and industry experts, chosen to match your interests and aspirations. Tuition hours are fully flexible and designed to fit around the other things that students have got going on, whether that's college, uni, work or school.
- £400 to invest in their creative development, as part of an Artist Development Plan. They could spend this on new instruments, equipment or software or more studio time - it's up to the student.
- A weekend-long writing retreat at internationally renowned creative residency Cove Park, set in the stunning Argyll countryside.
- Support to write, record, release and perform their music, as well as opportunities to network, meet new people and get their music out there.
- Music business support, covering everything from sync plays and growing your audience on social media to writing credits and PRS.
- Support from a peer mentor.
New Sounds Academy is open to musicians from any genre who are interested in pursuing a career in music. Punks, producers, DJ's, rappers, songwriters, singers - you name it. If you know someone who is care experienced, passionate about music, and looking for support to level up, we want to hear from them. Applicants should be 16-30, live within Glasgow (or be able to travel to Glasgow for their sessions) and make their own music / mixes
Musicares featured by The Promise
Back in November 2025, Rollo, Paul and Sace (Scottish Music Centre) met with Fraser McKinlay and Nick Jedrzejewski from The Promise to explore our Musicares partnership project, and the work that we do to widen access to creative opportunities for those with care experience across Scotland. This month the team at The Promise followed up with an article exploring the impact of this work, the vital role of tutors and social workers, as well as some of the challenges we face in making it happen.
From forming friendships and having fun, to fostering resilience and confidence, and processing trauma, we’ve seen first-hand the power that creativity can have within the lives of the young people we support. Everyone should be able to explore their creative potential – access to creative opportunities is a right, not a privilege, in line with Article 31 of the UNCRC.
A big thank you to the team at The Promise for taking the time to explore the project, which has now been running for 8 years in partnership between The Sound Lab and The Scottish Music Centre. Click the link below to read the piece in full:
From forming friendships and having fun, to fostering resilience and confidence, and processing trauma, we’ve seen first-hand the power that creativity can have within the lives of the young people we support. Everyone should be able to explore their creative potential – access to creative opportunities is a right, not a privilege, in line with Article 31 of the UNCRC.
A big thank you to the team at The Promise for taking the time to explore the project, which has now been running for 8 years in partnership between The Sound Lab and The Scottish Music Centre. Click the link below to read the piece in full:
GDA Learning Festival
Following a successful collaboration last year, Glasgow Disability Alliance invited us to run some workshops at their Learning Festival which took place at the Hilton Doubletree in February. A big thank you to volunteers Susie and Thomas who joined tutors Jonny and Eilis for this session – we ran a range of activities for GDA members, who really got into it, and made the most of our time together.
Eilis: “Initially, the plan had been to do some group songwriting but folk seemed pretty happy to experiment with different instruments and groups seemed to naturally form in the space. Susie was doing some work on keyboard with a group who wrote a song about farm animals, while Thomas was working with a man who was interested in guitar. At first, I worked with a woman, C, who was really into playing wee melodies on the keyboard and selecting different sounds in Ableton. Her favourite song is thank u, next by Ariana Grande, and we worked on learning a bit of the chorus melody on keys. I then spent some time working with P, who wrote a song about his memories of going to the Glasgow Taxi Outing (Troon, Troon, here we come/gonny have lots of fun/playing on the beach, playing on the beach!). A few of us were jamming to this, including one of the GDA staff members, Vika, who was really helpful! At the very end of the session, I spent some time working with Jenny, who I’d had some nice chats with earlier in the session. She’s a massive music fan and had some great stories about attending percussion workshops with the RSNO - she seemed to really enjoy the session, and was a total joy to chat to! I had a lot of fun doing this session, and really appreciated having Susie and Thomas in the space”
Jonny: “Everyone who had a go on the equipment seemed really enthusiastic and excited by what they were doing which was amazing to see, in particular C seemed like she really wanted to get something tangible out of the session and was super engaged in what I was saying - you could tell she really took it seriously and already has a musical ear, I think she'd be a great candidate to work with more.”
Eilis: “Initially, the plan had been to do some group songwriting but folk seemed pretty happy to experiment with different instruments and groups seemed to naturally form in the space. Susie was doing some work on keyboard with a group who wrote a song about farm animals, while Thomas was working with a man who was interested in guitar. At first, I worked with a woman, C, who was really into playing wee melodies on the keyboard and selecting different sounds in Ableton. Her favourite song is thank u, next by Ariana Grande, and we worked on learning a bit of the chorus melody on keys. I then spent some time working with P, who wrote a song about his memories of going to the Glasgow Taxi Outing (Troon, Troon, here we come/gonny have lots of fun/playing on the beach, playing on the beach!). A few of us were jamming to this, including one of the GDA staff members, Vika, who was really helpful! At the very end of the session, I spent some time working with Jenny, who I’d had some nice chats with earlier in the session. She’s a massive music fan and had some great stories about attending percussion workshops with the RSNO - she seemed to really enjoy the session, and was a total joy to chat to! I had a lot of fun doing this session, and really appreciated having Susie and Thomas in the space”
Jonny: “Everyone who had a go on the equipment seemed really enthusiastic and excited by what they were doing which was amazing to see, in particular C seemed like she really wanted to get something tangible out of the session and was super engaged in what I was saying - you could tell she really took it seriously and already has a musical ear, I think she'd be a great candidate to work with more.”
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Radio Round-Up
Tutor Kenny Bates joined Adam in the booth in early February to discuss his recording project, Quitter, and reflect on his experiences as a Sound Lab tutor. It was a stellar episode - listen back at the link below. Next up we’ll have Sound Lab student Abbie joining her tutor Alex to share some tunes and reflect on their time together as Abbie’s lessons come to a close. Be sure to tune in this Sunday 8th March from 5PM to hear these two on Radio Buena Vida!
Student Performances
A big well done to Sound Lab students Lyvi and Joshua, who both performed at events in February. Lyvi got a huge round of applause, sharing a video of her performing as part of South Lanarkshire Council’s Care Day celebrations. Beth-Anne McDowall, NHS South Lanarkshire: “Over 150 people heard Lyvia and loved it. Listen to the applause! She did absolutely amazing.”
The following week Joshua smashed it too, performing live at Paisley Town Hall for Fearless Scotland. Joshua is currently with us on placement, as part of his Community Development BA at University of Glasgow. He’s been a huge help, supporting with sourcing equipment, inventory management, and helping out behind the scenes. Joshua’s band play BLOC+ on March 31st - keep an eye on our socials for more details!
The following week Joshua smashed it too, performing live at Paisley Town Hall for Fearless Scotland. Joshua is currently with us on placement, as part of his Community Development BA at University of Glasgow. He’s been a huge help, supporting with sourcing equipment, inventory management, and helping out behind the scenes. Joshua’s band play BLOC+ on March 31st - keep an eye on our socials for more details!
Raising Funds to Change Lives Through Music
We are incredibly grateful whenever someone reaches out to say that they’re raising funds for The Sound Lab. Music is such a key part of what makes Glasgow great, and it touches so many people’s lives - none moreso than Gavin.
Before he passed away Gavin was a celebrated local vinyl DJ and club promoter, whose collection included everything from Boss Reggae and Rocksteady to Chicago House and Detroit Techno. In February his ex, Geri, got in touch to say that his daughter had chosen to do a collection for us at his funeral, and they were also going to fundraise for us at a local get-together for members of his community, where they’d be getting out his record collection and playing them together. Such a brilliant way to celebrate Gavin’s legacy, and they managed to raise a brilliant £200 for The Sound Lab, in addition to the funds raised from the funeral collection. We send our condolences to all Gavin’s friends and family – thank you for choosing to support us as part of his legacy.
There’s another Sound Lab fundraiser on the horizon as well. Samantha is a Music Performance HNC student at New College Lanarkshire. She’s organising a fundraising student showcase at the Hug n’ Pint on April 13th, featuring Luis Kelly, 4 Outta 5, Samantha Shaw and Alis Macintyre. Find out more and grab your ticket to support the local music scene at the link below:
Before he passed away Gavin was a celebrated local vinyl DJ and club promoter, whose collection included everything from Boss Reggae and Rocksteady to Chicago House and Detroit Techno. In February his ex, Geri, got in touch to say that his daughter had chosen to do a collection for us at his funeral, and they were also going to fundraise for us at a local get-together for members of his community, where they’d be getting out his record collection and playing them together. Such a brilliant way to celebrate Gavin’s legacy, and they managed to raise a brilliant £200 for The Sound Lab, in addition to the funds raised from the funeral collection. We send our condolences to all Gavin’s friends and family – thank you for choosing to support us as part of his legacy.
There’s another Sound Lab fundraiser on the horizon as well. Samantha is a Music Performance HNC student at New College Lanarkshire. She’s organising a fundraising student showcase at the Hug n’ Pint on April 13th, featuring Luis Kelly, 4 Outta 5, Samantha Shaw and Alis Macintyre. Find out more and grab your ticket to support the local music scene at the link below:
Here we go for 2026!
We’re only one month into the year, and already we’ve had our first Tutor & Volunteer meet-up, our first Young Advisor Group meeting of the year, two funder reports submitted, new partnerships with ESOL Scotland and Bridges Programme underway, and a very exciting announcement to share. It’s all go for the first Sound Lab Newsletter of the year!
New Sounds Academy is back!
We are delighted to announce the return of the New Sounds Academy programme for 2026, in partnership with the National Leadership Network and Cove Park.
First launched back in 2021-2023, New Sounds Academy was designed to ensure that up-and-coming musicians who experience barriers in their career could get the support they need in order to kick on in their professional development. From recording with a producer and releasing music, to performing live, getting on the radio and networking, 4 young musicians were given the tools and support that they needed in order to hone their sound and develop their talent over 2 years.
This time around it's a 1 year programme, which has been made possible thanks to the generous support of the National Leadership Network (NLN). Promoting leadership in all its different shapes and forms, the NLN is a national project led by young people with care experience. As such, New Sounds Academy 2026 is focused on providing development opportunities for care experienced young musicians.
Within the 2026 programme, 4 young care experienced musicians will each get:
- 50 hours of flexible tuition and mentoring from multiple tutors, producers and industry experts, chosen to match their interests and aspirations. Tuition hours are fully flexible, and designed to fit around the other things that students have got going on, whether that's college, uni, work or school.
- £400 to invest in their creative development, as part of their Artist Development Plan. This could be spent on new instruments, equipment or software, more studio time, it's up to the student.
- A weekend-long writing retreat at internationally renowned creative residency Cove Park, set in the stunning Argyll countryside.
- Support to write, record, release and perform their music, as well as opportunities to network, meet new people and get their music out there.
- Music business support, covering everything from sync plays and growing your audience on social media to writing credits and PRS
- Support from a peer mentor.
New Sounds Academy is designed to help care experienced young musicians to develop their talent and creative potential. Applicants should be 16-25, live within Glasgow (or be able to travel to Glasgow for their sessions) and make their own music.
It is open to musicians from any genre who are interested in pursuing a career in music. Punks, producers, DJ's, rappers, songwriters, singers - you name it. If you're looking for support to level up, we want to hear from you.
The Sound Lab aligns with Who Cares? Scotland and others in adopting a broad, inclusive definition of the term ‘care experienced’. This project is open to any young people with experience of: residential care; foster care; secure care; kinship care; those looked after at home with the help of social work; or who have experience of a permanence order.
Not sure if you're eligible? Just ask us! We want to hear from you either way. Drop an email to [email protected] or phone/WhatsApp us on 07388 000 935.
Curious to find out more? We will be running Info Sessions on Feb 18th (6PM) and March 5th (7PM). The deadline for applications is midnight on Wednesday 11th March.
It is open to musicians from any genre who are interested in pursuing a career in music. Punks, producers, DJ's, rappers, songwriters, singers - you name it. If you're looking for support to level up, we want to hear from you.
The Sound Lab aligns with Who Cares? Scotland and others in adopting a broad, inclusive definition of the term ‘care experienced’. This project is open to any young people with experience of: residential care; foster care; secure care; kinship care; those looked after at home with the help of social work; or who have experience of a permanence order.
Not sure if you're eligible? Just ask us! We want to hear from you either way. Drop an email to [email protected] or phone/WhatsApp us on 07388 000 935.
Curious to find out more? We will be running Info Sessions on Feb 18th (6PM) and March 5th (7PM). The deadline for applications is midnight on Wednesday 11th March.
Young Advisors Group - Logo Redevelopment
8 members of The Sound Lab Young Advisors Group came together in January to continue our Logo Redevelopment Project with designer Michaela Pointon (and to eat pizza).
Drawing on our personal experiences we delved into the Sound Lab’s values, and how those values might be translated visually into something fresh. It was an exciting and challenging process - a big thank you to Michaela for leading us through the process, we can’t wait to see how these discussions translate into our new brand identity! Thanks also to photographer Eoin Carey who joined us to document this session.
Drawing on our personal experiences we delved into the Sound Lab’s values, and how those values might be translated visually into something fresh. It was an exciting and challenging process - a big thank you to Michaela for leading us through the process, we can’t wait to see how these discussions translate into our new brand identity! Thanks also to photographer Eoin Carey who joined us to document this session.
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Women To The Front
January saw the beginning of our ‘Women To The Front’ project, in partnership with ESOL Scotland and Bridges Programme. Thanks to funding from Volant Small Grants (administered by Foundation Scotland) we are able to run a series of group music workshops for women with lived experience of displacement.
So far 13 women have taken part, learning violin, keyboard and vocals across 3 groups. In recognition of the challenge of food poverty we are also providing the participants with a meal to take home with them.
A special thank you as well to our friends at Vox Liminis who have generously welcomed us into their workshop space - some of these sessions were due to take place at the CCA - following its sudden closure last week.
Elsewhere, Sound Lab programming continues to pick up pace following the seasonal slowdown, with tons of 1:1 and group workshops underway, as well as partnership sessions lined up with Glasgow Disability Alliance and others.
Radio Buena Vida: Kenny Bates
Tune in this Sunday for our first Radio Buena Vida show of the year! Tutor, artist and all-round good guy Kenny Bates will join Adam in the booth to discuss his recording project, Bella Figura, under his alias Quitter, whilst also shining a light on his experiences as a Sound Lab tutor, and his wider teaching / creative practice.
Quitter will also be playing shows in The Settle Inn, Stirling (12th Feb) and Glad Cafe Glasgow (27th Feb) so get yourself along for one of those shows if you fancy some lo-fi indie rock magic. Since joining in 2025 Kenny has become an integral member of our tutor team, and we can’t wait to hear what he has in store for us.
Quitter will also be playing shows in The Settle Inn, Stirling (12th Feb) and Glad Cafe Glasgow (27th Feb) so get yourself along for one of those shows if you fancy some lo-fi indie rock magic. Since joining in 2025 Kenny has become an integral member of our tutor team, and we can’t wait to hear what he has in store for us.
Tutor and Volunteer Open Night
Back in January, we brought together our brilliant tutors and volunteers for a proper catch-up at the 3rd Eye Bar, a small moment to pause, reflect on 2025, look ahead to 2026 and celebrate the people who make everything we do possible.
With great food from MILK on hand, a short and sweet year-in-review presentation, and plenty of time to chat, it was a great evening spent with our lovely staff, board members, and volunteer team.
The night was made even more special by one of our own, as former student turned volunteer, Stefano, stepped up with a DJ set that kept the space moving and the energy high.
Huge thanks once again to Eoin for capturing the night so beautifully.
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Other News and Opportunities
TRACK - A new project from Articulate
Our friends over at Articulate have announced Track, a Songwriting, Performance and Production Course designed for care experienced young people (16-30) who want to write, record and release their own music.
Students will be taught by industry professionals and supported to release your own music on Spotify and Apple Music, gain an Arts Award certificate, as well as the chance to perform in Glasgow’s music venues.
Students can take part in one to one, online or group activities, the course is built around your needs and schedule and there are no costs for taking part, we’ll also cover travel costs and provide food.
They are having an Open Day for people to find out more about the course on 23rd Feb. To find out more click the link below:
Off The Record Edinburgh - 21st Feb
Join Off The Record in Edinburgh on Saturday 21st February for a packed daytime programme of sessions covering rights and royalties, how to get started in the music industry and develop your network, organising your own gigs and digitally releasing your music.
Their industry guests will explore the steps for getting your music in front of the right people, building your network, collaborating with artists and your peers and top tips for working in the music industry.
Speakers include: Aja Garrod-Prance (SMIA), Cameron Hughes (Clockwork Live), Chloe Lancaster (Freelance/DMC), Jack McManus (Scottish Music Collective), Jamie Gilmour (Rightsbridge), Lewis Kelso (Hang Tough Records), Lok Pui Lu (Be United and ESEA Creatives), Lucy Babe Hunte (gullygully / Serve!), Meg Denholm (DF Concerts), Owen Davies (Days Festival), Phoebe I-H (BBC Introducing), Rosie Watson (23rd Precinct), SJ Andersen (EmuBands)
Find out more about the speakers here: https://wide.ink/Speakers
There is also the opportunity for young people to submit their music for feedback from a panel of industry professionals from across Scotland. In between sessions, attendees will have the chance to network with fellow creatives as well as industry professionals.
Join Off The Record in Edinburgh on Saturday 21st February for a packed daytime programme of sessions covering rights and royalties, how to get started in the music industry and develop your network, organising your own gigs and digitally releasing your music.
Their industry guests will explore the steps for getting your music in front of the right people, building your network, collaborating with artists and your peers and top tips for working in the music industry.
Speakers include: Aja Garrod-Prance (SMIA), Cameron Hughes (Clockwork Live), Chloe Lancaster (Freelance/DMC), Jack McManus (Scottish Music Collective), Jamie Gilmour (Rightsbridge), Lewis Kelso (Hang Tough Records), Lok Pui Lu (Be United and ESEA Creatives), Lucy Babe Hunte (gullygully / Serve!), Meg Denholm (DF Concerts), Owen Davies (Days Festival), Phoebe I-H (BBC Introducing), Rosie Watson (23rd Precinct), SJ Andersen (EmuBands)
Find out more about the speakers here: https://wide.ink/Speakers
There is also the opportunity for young people to submit their music for feedback from a panel of industry professionals from across Scotland. In between sessions, attendees will have the chance to network with fellow creatives as well as industry professionals.
Winter Newsletter 2025
Welcome to the final Sound Lab newsletter of the year. We’re tying up loose ends and getting the tinsel out, but before we wrap up for the year, we’ll be running group workshops with Standing Tall Scotland and Hemat Gryffe Women’s Aid (via ESOL Scotland) as well as a range of in-house opportunities at the Pentagon Business Centre, including our regular guitar group (Tuesdays from 5:30PM) and Build a Band sessions (Fridays 6PM – 8PM).
December brings the curtain down on a jam-packed year – by the end of this month we will have delivered over 800 hours of 1:1 tuition, alongside more than 550 hours of group workshop tuition across the year (not including late cancellations). This makes 2025 a record year for The Sound Lab and shows the scale of the challenge we face when it comes to ensuring that creative and cultural opportunities are available to everyone, in line with UNCRC Article 31. A big thank you to the students, tutors, funders, volunteers, supporters and partners we’ve worked with across the year.
We wish you all a relaxing and rejuvenating festive break!
Rollo & Adam
December brings the curtain down on a jam-packed year – by the end of this month we will have delivered over 800 hours of 1:1 tuition, alongside more than 550 hours of group workshop tuition across the year (not including late cancellations). This makes 2025 a record year for The Sound Lab and shows the scale of the challenge we face when it comes to ensuring that creative and cultural opportunities are available to everyone, in line with UNCRC Article 31. A big thank you to the students, tutors, funders, volunteers, supporters and partners we’ve worked with across the year.
We wish you all a relaxing and rejuvenating festive break!
Rollo & Adam
Advocating for the importance of participatory arts
In November Paul, Rollo and Sace were delighted to meet with Fraser McKinlay and Nick Jedrzejewski from The Promise Scotland to discuss our Musicares partnership between The Sound Lab and Scottish Music Centre.
Via Musicares we provide free, flexible, participant-led music education for care experienced children and young people across 29 different local authorities in Scotland. Thanks to Fraser and Nick for making the time to explore the role of participatory arts programmes like Musicares in helping to #keepthepromise, so that children in Scotland grow up loved, safe and respected, and get to reach their full potential.
If you’ve not listened yet, the Promise podcast is an excellent space for learning about different work that’s taking place across Scotland to improve the lives of care experienced children and young people. Recent episodes focus on a Family Links pilot project in Inverness (exploring the role of whole family support in improving school attendance and engagement) and the Community of Practice for Siblings (looking at different approaches to prioritizing brothers and sisters within the care system, and their right to stay together).
In November The Promise Scotland sent a joint letter to all political parties ahead of the Scottish election, calling on them to support the development of Plan 24-30, and the road map for change that it sets out for the care system in Scotland. Sound Lab joined a range of other signatories on the letter, which can be read here.
The role of music education in upholding children’s rights was also the focus of this article in The Herald, published in November. In the article Sound Lab Chair Paul Sullivan highlights that creative education supports young people’s development in a wide range of areas, from self-expression and social skills, to aspiration, memory, emotional regulation and focus. All of which reiterates why creative opportunities, provided by organizations like Big Noise and The Sound Lab, need to be made available to everyone, not just the privileged few.
Via Musicares we provide free, flexible, participant-led music education for care experienced children and young people across 29 different local authorities in Scotland. Thanks to Fraser and Nick for making the time to explore the role of participatory arts programmes like Musicares in helping to #keepthepromise, so that children in Scotland grow up loved, safe and respected, and get to reach their full potential.
If you’ve not listened yet, the Promise podcast is an excellent space for learning about different work that’s taking place across Scotland to improve the lives of care experienced children and young people. Recent episodes focus on a Family Links pilot project in Inverness (exploring the role of whole family support in improving school attendance and engagement) and the Community of Practice for Siblings (looking at different approaches to prioritizing brothers and sisters within the care system, and their right to stay together).
In November The Promise Scotland sent a joint letter to all political parties ahead of the Scottish election, calling on them to support the development of Plan 24-30, and the road map for change that it sets out for the care system in Scotland. Sound Lab joined a range of other signatories on the letter, which can be read here.
The role of music education in upholding children’s rights was also the focus of this article in The Herald, published in November. In the article Sound Lab Chair Paul Sullivan highlights that creative education supports young people’s development in a wide range of areas, from self-expression and social skills, to aspiration, memory, emotional regulation and focus. All of which reiterates why creative opportunities, provided by organizations like Big Noise and The Sound Lab, need to be made available to everyone, not just the privileged few.
Young Advisors Group - Logo Redevelopment
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“It’s giving skater boi vibes.” That was the Young Advisors assessment of our current logo when they came together at the Pentagon for a session with designer Michaela Pointon on brand development. Together the group reflected on what The Sound Lab means to them, and what they get out of being involved, in a bid to build a new logo that better reflects the work that we do, and the values that underpin it. The group fully committed to the process, exploring left-field prompts like “if the Sound Lab was a colour, what would it be”, “what’s its style”, “how does it walk?”
The Sound Lab work closely with individuals from different backgrounds who learn different instruments with different tutors; to bring the Young Advisors group together and see them work together in a fun, generous and respectful way was one of the high points of the year. We can’t wait to see what Michaela comes back with for our next session, and to share our new visual identity with you all in early 2026!
The Sound Lab work closely with individuals from different backgrounds who learn different instruments with different tutors; to bring the Young Advisors group together and see them work together in a fun, generous and respectful way was one of the high points of the year. We can’t wait to see what Michaela comes back with for our next session, and to share our new visual identity with you all in early 2026!
More than just tuition…
Whilst most of our work involves providing free, flexible tuition and support, we also fundamentally want to ensure that Sound Lab students can actively take part in, and contribute to, the cultural and creative life of their community. Here are a few examples from the past month:
Faraj Suleiman Concert
“Seeing Faraj Suleiman live was an incredible experience - made even more special by sharing it with some Sound Lab students. Thanks to our friends at Cove Park, we had the pleasure of attending an unforgettable, inspiring night at The Mackintosh Church.” Adam Khettabi, Programme Coordinator
A group of Sound Lab students went with Adam to hear virtuoso jazz pianist and composer Faraj Suleiman making his Scottish debut at Mackintosh Queen’s Cross Church in early November. Suleiman draws on his Arabic heritage, as well as classical and jazz influences to carve out new ground and forms of expression. This concert was organized by MARSM in partnership with Cove Park, who made a video to commemorate Faraj’s performance and associated residency. Thank you to our friends at Cove Park for the invitation.
Faraj Suleiman Concert
“Seeing Faraj Suleiman live was an incredible experience - made even more special by sharing it with some Sound Lab students. Thanks to our friends at Cove Park, we had the pleasure of attending an unforgettable, inspiring night at The Mackintosh Church.” Adam Khettabi, Programme Coordinator
A group of Sound Lab students went with Adam to hear virtuoso jazz pianist and composer Faraj Suleiman making his Scottish debut at Mackintosh Queen’s Cross Church in early November. Suleiman draws on his Arabic heritage, as well as classical and jazz influences to carve out new ground and forms of expression. This concert was organized by MARSM in partnership with Cove Park, who made a video to commemorate Faraj’s performance and associated residency. Thank you to our friends at Cove Park for the invitation.
Daniela on the decks for SCCR
Cyrenians reached out to us to see if any Sound Lab students would be interested in DJing at Glasgow Science Centre, as part of Scottish Centre for Conflict Resolution’s Young People Conference. Previous Sound Lab student Mirin AKA DJ Glamm DJ’ed at this event back in 2022; this time around Daniela stepped up to make her live debut.
Showcasing her love of pop bangers, Daniela smashed it!
Showcasing her love of pop bangers, Daniela smashed it!
“It was a once in a lifetime opportunity that I hope to happen again. I would recommend the opportuity to work with The Sound Lab to anyone.”
Daniela
Daniela
Nikan does it ‘My Way’
Wiktoria has been tutoring Nikan since May and regularly waxes lyrical about the progress he’s been making to develope his natural talent (his vocal range encompasses 4 octaves!) In November the two of them made their way to Carlton studios where Nikan had his first experience of singing in a recording studio.
“We had a busy recording session with Nikan. I knew he was nervous and I could not be prouder of seeing how he overcame the emotions and did two takes of each song (6 takes in total). I know he is interested in recording, so the studio was definitely a great place for him to be. Kevin, the sound engineer was a massive support during the whole process, helping Nikan feeling comfortable and explaining all of the stages and elements of the session.”
Wiktoria has been tutoring Nikan since May and regularly waxes lyrical about the progress he’s been making to develope his natural talent (his vocal range encompasses 4 octaves!) In November the two of them made their way to Carlton studios where Nikan had his first experience of singing in a recording studio.
“We had a busy recording session with Nikan. I knew he was nervous and I could not be prouder of seeing how he overcame the emotions and did two takes of each song (6 takes in total). I know he is interested in recording, so the studio was definitely a great place for him to be. Kevin, the sound engineer was a massive support during the whole process, helping Nikan feeling comfortable and explaining all of the stages and elements of the session.”
Radio Roundup: Jasmine, Jacqueline & Hugh
“It’s been an awesome experience! During school days I get bored, but then I have something to look forward to, Thursdays I have practice with The Sound Lab, and practice is really fun!’” Jasmine
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In November Sound Lab students Jasmine and Jacqueline took over the booth at Radio Buena Vida and began the festive celebrations, kicking off with some Mariah Carey! The sisters reflected on the fun they have during their lessons doing bass and guitar with Nicky, partnership opportunities making films via GMAC, and shared some unusual anatomical abilities (they can wiggle their ears and bend their thumbs backwards!) Thanks to J & J for taking the time to join us in the booth and bringing their infectious sense of fun to the party!
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Then in December Sound Lab’s busiest volunteer Hugh joined us to record an episode reflecting on the year he’s had. Looking for a way to give back in the community, Hugh joined the Sound Lab back in March, drawing on his experience from his time in the army, and as a Fist Aid instructor to inform his approach as a volunteer tutor. Since then he’s supported the G15 guitar group, helped out at sessions at The Celtic Foundation and helped young members of the Glasgow Disability Alliance to learn the Omnichord. Hugh has contributed a huge amount of time and energy this year and become a valued member of The Sound Lab community.
Hugh is also the lead vocalist and guitarist for PICT, who have become a force to be reckoned with in the Scottish black metal scene. Alongside reflecting on his Sound Lab experiences Hugh also shares some of his formative influences and favourite moments with PICT, ‘the most miserable band in the world’. PICT play their final show of the year on Friday 12th December supporting Hammer at Banshee Labyrinth in Edinburgh - get yourself along! Listen back at the link below:
Hugh is also the lead vocalist and guitarist for PICT, who have become a force to be reckoned with in the Scottish black metal scene. Alongside reflecting on his Sound Lab experiences Hugh also shares some of his formative influences and favourite moments with PICT, ‘the most miserable band in the world’. PICT play their final show of the year on Friday 12th December supporting Hammer at Banshee Labyrinth in Edinburgh - get yourself along! Listen back at the link below:
“Honestly, I’ve really loved it. It has genuinely scratched that itch in terms of being a contributing member of the community.” Hugh
Both of our community radio partners, Radio Buena Vida and Clyde Built Radio are running fundraisers this month. Show your support for these vital community assets via the links below. Every donation to Clyde Built Radio’s fundraiser will be match funded by Creative Scotland:
October &November Newsletter
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Happy Halloween readers, we hope you had a spooktacular weekend! This month marked a year since our fantastic Music Makes Glasgow celebration, which took place at Drygate in October 2024. Featuring student performers, a film premiere, professional artists and DJ’s, a belter of a raffle, a radio panel discussion and workshops galore (breathe!) it was a cracking way to mark 25 years of The Sound Lab. Were you there for it? Relive the fun in our gallery here.
October 2025 wasn’t too bad either! This month Sound Lab student Elina showed her appreciation for her guitar lessons with Kim, presenting her with this beautiful painting which references Kim’s band Raveloe. The strong branches represent the fact that music is now an important part of life for Elina, something that is here to stay, and will last a long time. Thank you so much Elina. Read on to look back at what we got up to across October, plus a look at what’s coming up this month across The Sound Lab community. |
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Women To The Front
We’re delighted to announce a new programme, Women To The Front. Offering a range of group music making opportunities for women and girls with lived experience of displacement, Women To The Front will be run in partnership with 2 organizations who we’re working with for the first time:
- Bridges Programme, who specialize in employability coaching and routes into the workplace for New Scots; and
- ESOL Scotland - who help participants to learn English so that they can meaningfully participate in, and contribute to, life in Scotland.
These sessions will feature free food for participants to take home, in recognition of the challenge of food poverty.
Last week the Glasgow Central Mosque was defaced with ‘Scots First’ graffiti, prompting a spokesperson from the mosque to restate the immense contributions of Scottish Muslims in shaping the life of the city, across business, politics, sport, culture, the NHS and beyond. Despite the scapegoating and hate speech that is being propagated by those on the right wing, we know for a fact that Scotland is far richer, not poorer, both economically and culturally, for the contributions of people from a range of different faiths, cultures and ethnicities, regardless of whether they were born in Scotland or not.
We stand in solidarity with any individuals or organisations who have been left feeling vulnerable as a result of the rise in hate crimes we are presently witnessing across Scotland. We’re proud to be working alongside 2 likeminded organisations within our Women To The Front programme who share our vision for an inclusive Scotland, supporting women and girls with lived experience of displacement to access, and contribute to, Scottish cultural life.
The Women To The Front programme is funded by The Volant Charitable Trust Small Grants Programme, administered by Foundation Scotland, and we are particularly grateful for their support.
Young Advisors Group meet at The Pentagon
We were delighted to bring together a group of current and former Sound Lab students in October for a Young Advisors Group meeting. Young people should always be consulted on decisions that affect them, and we want to ensure that young people’s voices are at the heart of everything we do at The Sound Lab.
From website redesign through to a new logo, strategic priorities for 2026 and more, we feel particularly lucky to work with these thoughtful, articulate young people to shape the work of The Sound Lab moving forward! We’ll be sharing profiles of different YAG members in the newsletter and on our website in the weeks ahead, so keep an eye out for those.
From website redesign through to a new logo, strategic priorities for 2026 and more, we feel particularly lucky to work with these thoughtful, articulate young people to shape the work of The Sound Lab moving forward! We’ll be sharing profiles of different YAG members in the newsletter and on our website in the weeks ahead, so keep an eye out for those.
Sound Lab Out and About
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We’ve been meeting, listening, talking and reflecting this month.
Led by young people with experience of care and the Children’s Hearings system from Our Hearings Our Voice, Rise Up was a day of reflection anchored around the publication of a new guide: ‘Seeing Beyond the Surface: what young people wish that all adults knew’. The event was inspiring and humbling, and whilst there is definitely more to do to ensure that Scotland keeps the Promise, it was heartening to hear about the progress that has been made in areas like Children’s Hearings System reform, off the back of advocacy work such as OHOV’s 40 Calls to Action. Familiarize yourself with ‘Seeing Beyond the Surface’ at https://www.ohov.co.uk/guide/ Rollo also attended funder portfolio meetings with the Corra Foundation (meeting fellow grant-holders and reflecting on the Corra Foundation’s reporting process) and Inspiring Scotland Creative Communities Glasgow (reflecting on co-creating outcomes with participants, in a brilliant session with Govanhill Baths Community Trust). Meanwhile Adam represented the organisation at the annual HSCP Continuing Care and Aftercare Service’s October Celebration event at Civic House, talking with partners about the opportunities on offer for care experienced children and young people via The Sound Lab. |
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Rollo also met with New Scots and partners at the Bridges Programme Stakeholder Event at Refuweegee’s offices. This builds on wider work raising the profile of The Sound Lab over the last couple of months, including Paul and Ruairidh taking part in an Inspiring Scotland event celebrating the work of volunteers at the City Chambers, and Rollo speaking at the Music Education Partnership Group conference in September.
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Opportunities for Sound Lab Community Members
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In October we launched both Guitar Group and ‘Build A Band’ classes, running on Tuesdays (5:30 – 6:30PM) and Fridays (6-8PM) respectively here at the Pentagon. If you, or someone you know, would be interested in joining either of these group workshops, please email [email protected] for more information. This month, alongside tution, we’re also offering 2 opportunities for members of the Sound Lab community to get involved in the local music scene: Faraj Suleiman @ The Mackintosh Church - Sat 8th November Our friends over at Cove Park have very kindly offered The Sound Lab community 5 complimentary tickets for an incredibly special event — a live solo performance by Palestinian composer and pianist Faraj Suleiman, taking place at The Mackintosh Church, Maryhill, on Saturday 8 November (doors open at 6.45pm). This marks Faraj’s first-ever performance in Scotland, following his two-week residency at Cove Park and a major European tour. His music blends Arabic and Eastern melodies with jazz traditions, creating an expressive, moving sound that’s both intimate and powerful. Contact [email protected] if you would like to attend. Resonate Conference - Thurs 13th November Featuring expert panels, speakers and live music from the brilliant Declan Welsh and others, the lineup for this year’s Resonate conference looks jam packed – a great opportunity for any students who are keen to take their music to the next level. Panel discussions include: ‘Spin Doctors: Crafting the Perfect PR Campaign’ and ‘On the Merch: Creating the Perfect Merch Package’. We’re giving away a small number of free tickets for Sound Lab students to this year’s event, which will take place at Platform (directly underneath Central Station) – email [email protected] if you’d like one. |
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Young DJs on the decks with Glasgow Disability Alliance
Jonny and Hannah ran a DJ workshop for young members of Glasgow Disability Alliance in October, supported by volunteers Hugh and Adam and the team at GDA. Sound Lab tutor Kim was also there in her capacity as a Personal Support Assistant for GDA, so it was very much a Sound Lab full house! Reflecting on the session, DJ tutor Hannah said:
“When I was going through the controller set up there was some great participation from the workshop participants - one of the young people gave me some very enthusiastic ‘WOWs’ which I appreciated. The young people seemed to really enjoy the controller set up, especially getting to play their own songs and use all the different pads and effects. Lots of them were really really good with rhythm and got the hang of the controls very quickly. As a tutor I am very conscious of not commandeering the situation and letting the young people figure out how to use the equipment in their own time and I think this session was really good for that - I rarely touched the equipment and everyone was able to play at their own pace and focus on which aspect of the decks they were enjoying the most. Even though it was a group with quite different needs I didn't find that this posed a problem at all. I was also glad to be able to chat at length about Dr Who monsters with one of the service users!”
A big thank you to our volunteers, all the young people who took part, and the team at GDA whose zine-making activity complemented the music-making brilliantly. Thanks for having us!
“When I was going through the controller set up there was some great participation from the workshop participants - one of the young people gave me some very enthusiastic ‘WOWs’ which I appreciated. The young people seemed to really enjoy the controller set up, especially getting to play their own songs and use all the different pads and effects. Lots of them were really really good with rhythm and got the hang of the controls very quickly. As a tutor I am very conscious of not commandeering the situation and letting the young people figure out how to use the equipment in their own time and I think this session was really good for that - I rarely touched the equipment and everyone was able to play at their own pace and focus on which aspect of the decks they were enjoying the most. Even though it was a group with quite different needs I didn't find that this posed a problem at all. I was also glad to be able to chat at length about Dr Who monsters with one of the service users!”
A big thank you to our volunteers, all the young people who took part, and the team at GDA whose zine-making activity complemented the music-making brilliantly. Thanks for having us!
Safe2Thrive with Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland
Our friends at SOHTIS have launched a new Safe2Thrive programme, and we’re delighted that they’ve invited us to be a part of it. At the first session Eilis had participants playing everything from drums, piano and guitar through to MIDI recording and violin, with students drifting between different instruments, and enjoying playing together.
Upcoming sessions will include group singing for Vietnamese speakers and a music appreciation group as well, with previous drop-in participants also keen to access 1:1 tuition opportunities.
Thank you to Aileen and the team at SOHTIS for your help with getting this round of sessions up and running.
Upcoming sessions will include group singing for Vietnamese speakers and a music appreciation group as well, with previous drop-in participants also keen to access 1:1 tuition opportunities.
Thank you to Aileen and the team at SOHTIS for your help with getting this round of sessions up and running.
Radio Roundup with TAG and Novek
Here at The Sound Lab, partnership work is key to what we do, and one of our favourite partners this year has been TAG – The Advisory Group, who do brilliant work supporting children, young people & adults with disabilities and additional support needs.
In this episode Adam sat down with Neil and Jade from TAG to discuss their ethos and motivations, as well as our work with their Gamechangers Extra Time programme, encompassing sessions at both Hollybrook Academy and Queens Park Arena. Neil and Jade were excellent, reflective guests; from making friends to growing in confidence, they shared some beautiful examples of the impact that Sound Lab tuition has had within the lives of the young people they support. Listen back for yourself at the link below:
“I remember being so impressed by how Eilis and Paddy were able to adapt activities to make them inclusive for everyone to be involved… And their activities were just really, really fun. Their delivery was really special, and that environment was really special - everyone felt safe and able to participate” Jade, TAG.
In this episode Adam sat down with Neil and Jade from TAG to discuss their ethos and motivations, as well as our work with their Gamechangers Extra Time programme, encompassing sessions at both Hollybrook Academy and Queens Park Arena. Neil and Jade were excellent, reflective guests; from making friends to growing in confidence, they shared some beautiful examples of the impact that Sound Lab tuition has had within the lives of the young people they support. Listen back for yourself at the link below:
“I remember being so impressed by how Eilis and Paddy were able to adapt activities to make them inclusive for everyone to be involved… And their activities were just really, really fun. Their delivery was really special, and that environment was really special - everyone felt safe and able to participate” Jade, TAG.
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Also this month, former student and Music Makes Glasgow guest DJ Ciaran AKA Novek curated an hour of banging beats for us on Clyde Built Radio. Featuring Fred Again, Maceo Plex, Joy Oribison, Jeff Mills and more, Ciaran smashed it! Follow Novek on Resident advisor here.
Coming up next on Radio Buena Vida this month Young Advisor Group members Jasmine and Jacqueline will be joining Adam in the booth for our Radio Buena Vida residency on Sunday 9th November to pick the tunes and talk about their experiences learning guitar, bass and violin with Nicky.
Our friends at Radio Buena Vida are also currently running a fundraising raffle with heaps of excellent prizes on offer (including some from ourselves)! Click below to find out more.
Our friends at Radio Buena Vida are also currently running a fundraising raffle with heaps of excellent prizes on offer (including some from ourselves)! Click below to find out more.
September Newsletter
Autumn arrives as September gives way to October. Join us for a look back at what we got up to over the last month, plus a look at what’s coming up for the rest of this month across The Sound Lab community, featuring some stellar radio episodes and opportunities for young people, including Resonate music conference, DJ, guitar, and band workshops and more!
Mixing it Up with Glasgow Disability Alliance
We’re joining forces with Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA) to run a DJ workshop for young people with a disability next Tuesday (October 14th). Led by Jonny ‘Wheelman’ Fernandez and Hannah AKA Boosterhooch, the session is free, with taxi transport, lunch, teas/coffees and personal support assistance also provided thanks to the team at GDA. To book a spot email [email protected] Text 07958299 496 or Phone 0141 556 7103.
Where: The Boardwalk, 105 Brunswick St, Glasgow G1 1TF When: Tuesday October 14th 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM Earlier this month Isa and Jonny ran an all-ages session for Glasgow Disability Alliance. With 20 participants taking part across 2 rooms,the place was buzzing with creativity and curiosity:
‘We started the session by going around the full group and asking them to introduce themselves and tell us their favourite musician. Immediately I realized there was a massive range of different tastes from different eras which made me a bit worried, but was good to know for our next session. I did a demonstration of the equipment to the full group and then we split into two groups of around 10, one working with me and one with Isa. For my group we jumped right into hands-on practice and I explained how I’d carry out a very basic mix and guided them through the process. It was a great 4 hours and everyone seemed to get a lot out of it.”
Jonny: ‘There was one girl who hosts a hospital radio show and was really excited to learn about blending songs together. There was a nice level of engagement as well as people getting to hang out and have a chat about music.’ - Isa.
Thanks to everyone at Glasgow Disability Alliance for such a warm welcome, and well done to everyone who took part!
Ando Glaso Roma Fest
In September we were invited to take part in the Ando Glaso Roma Fest at Elim Church – a vibrant day of cultural celebration filled with music, community and creativity. Jordan joined Adam, Leon and the young people to deliver a hands-on music production and DJ session:
“While we were setting up, a band made up of some young people were sound checking and they were absolutely amazing instrumentalists! They ended up being the most curious, building tracks together on Launchpad and experimenting with new sounds. Some highlights included showing the drummer how to cut up and replay drum breaks on the OP-1, and watching the accordion player translate his skills beautifully onto MIDI keys in GarageBand. We even had a girl no older than 5 who stayed with us the whole time – she loved it so much she even took the iPad on stage and sat in front of a microphone!” - Jordan
It was a fantastic day of music and discovery, giving young people the chance to explore new creative tools while celebrating the richness of Roma culture. A big thanks to Leon and everyone at Ando Glaso for inviting us to be part of this special event.
“While we were setting up, a band made up of some young people were sound checking and they were absolutely amazing instrumentalists! They ended up being the most curious, building tracks together on Launchpad and experimenting with new sounds. Some highlights included showing the drummer how to cut up and replay drum breaks on the OP-1, and watching the accordion player translate his skills beautifully onto MIDI keys in GarageBand. We even had a girl no older than 5 who stayed with us the whole time – she loved it so much she even took the iPad on stage and sat in front of a microphone!” - Jordan
It was a fantastic day of music and discovery, giving young people the chance to explore new creative tools while celebrating the richness of Roma culture. A big thanks to Leon and everyone at Ando Glaso for inviting us to be part of this special event.
Disco Milestone with PAMIS
This month marked a special milestone as Sound Lab legend Keith Jones ran the 50th Zoom Disco for young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) and their carers, in association with PAMIS. For years now, Keith has brought the community together from all over Scotland to start the weekend in style; sharing his infectious love of music and eclectic taste, he creates a welcoming space full of joy, fun, energy, and connection. Here’s to the next 50!
“Our 50th online PAMIS disco was such a joy - 90 minutes of non-stop requests, smiles, and dancing together. Everyone was in a great mood, loving hearing their favourite tunes played, and it was the perfect way to celebrate how special these discos have become.” Keith
“My daughter has engaged in very little since lockdown, but she really enjoys the Sound Lab sessions…She was engaged and dancing throughout. Thank you!” Parent
Listen back to Keith’s fabulous episode on our Radio Buena Vida residency from earlier this year here
Standing Tall - DJ & Production Taster
Keith and Isa delivered a brilliant taster session for young people with lived experience of displacement, in partnership with our friends at Standing Tall Scotland. Moving between stations, participants got hands-on with DJ decks, music tech, and synths – with plenty of curiosity, focus, and energy throughout.
“A wonderful introduction to the group! Such a warm environment and the young people were really engaged in the music. One girl in particular wouldn’t leave the DJ decks – she was hooked! I also had some great conversations with participants about music, football and food, and it was lovely to find so much common ground. Everyone seemed really happy and keen to learn – a great success.” – Keith
“A wonderful introduction to the group! Such a warm environment and the young people were really engaged in the music. One girl in particular wouldn’t leave the DJ decks – she was hooked! I also had some great conversations with participants about music, football and food, and it was lovely to find so much common ground. Everyone seemed really happy and keen to learn – a great success.” – Keith
Radio Roundup with Elina and Konchis
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In case you missed it, Elina joined Adam in the booth in September for one of our favourite Radio Buena Vida episodes of the year to date. Reflecting on her lessons with Kim, her favourite music, personal history and faith, Elina thrived, curating a brilliant hour of community radio.
“I really liked doing the radio; I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed, but Adam was really good at telling me, ‘it’s nothing too big, just take it easy’, and he helped me to relax. It was a great first experience and I would definitely be interested in more radio opportunities.” Elina
“I really liked doing the radio; I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed, but Adam was really good at telling me, ‘it’s nothing too big, just take it easy’, and he helped me to relax. It was a great first experience and I would definitely be interested in more radio opportunities.” Elina
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This month keep an eye and ear open for our RBV show with our friends from TAG, Neil & Jade on Sunday 12th of October from 5-6PM.
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Then on September 29th, Sound Lab tutor Jordan AKA Konchis stepped into the booth with Adam for a special tutor takeover show on Clyde Built Radio. During the session Jordan reflected on his time working with The Sound Lab – from teaching and connecting with students, to sharing fond memories, future projects, and insights into his own creative process.
Jordan also treated listeners to an exclusive 30-minute mix, showcasing his distinctive style and energy on the decks. His brand new 30-track long-play, Supervillain LP, is out now and available on Bandcamp – well worth checking out here: WAV MACHINE -SUPERVILLAIN LP |
Further Opportunities
We are currently recruiting students for a couple of group workshops - a Guitar Group, with Eilis, and a ‘Build a Band’ workshop, with Eilis and Paddy. If you want to sign up or find out more, email [email protected]
Resonate, Scotland’s finest new music conference, returns to Platform, Glasgow, on Thursday November 13th, with a lineup stacked with bands, speakers, DJ’s, panel talks and more. It’s the perfect place to meet other musicians, catch the next hot artists on their way up, and find out more about how to take your music to the next level. Head to www.resonatescot.co.uk for more info. Want to head along? Drop us a message or email [email protected] - we’ll be providing a limited number of free tickets for Sound Lab students.
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Meet The Tutor: Jordan Carey
From running a session for Ando Glaso, to tutoring Fin and curating our latest mix on Clyde Built Radio, Jordan’s been busy for The Sound Lab this month. Get to know more about what makes this versatile producer :
AUGUST NEWSLETTER
Featuring 3 new radio shows, partnerships with Govan Community Project, Arts in the City (Glasgow HSCP) and upcoming collaborations with Glasgow Disability Alliance and Ando Glaso, this month’s newsletter is full to the brim!
Capturing the Sounds of the City
In August we were delighted to be invited by Arts in the City (Glasgow HSCP) to take part in a series of workshops which offered children and young people across the city the chance to explore different creative activities. Across Govan, Calton and Govanhill.
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Student Spotlight: Elina
“I really enjoy learning with Kim - she is really patient with me learning the new patterns; she doesn’t rush me or make me feel like I’m doing it wrong; she’s really good at letting me practice it and encouraging me to hear it as well. It really helps me to get into the music.” Elina
Elina is such a dedicated student, and she picks things up so quickly. She took her guitar to guitarguitar recently to get it restrung and they said they would need to take it and do it overnight, to which she said, ‘no way, I need it to practice!’
Elina will be joining us in the booth at Radio Buena Vida in the near future, so keep your eyes peeled for that!
12 Guitars Donation
This month Gerry and Frank dropped into The Sound Lab Hub to donate us eight fantastic guitars, courtesy of 12 Guitars. The guitar is easily one of the most popular instrument options chosen by Sound Lab students, and we’re always loaning out instruments so that they can practice independently - these fantastic new additions will be in the hands of young people in our community in no time!
If you haven’t come across them already, check out 12 Guitars and the excellent work they do transforming people’s lives through music and the guitar. 🎸
Upcoming DJ Partnerships
September will see us running DJ sessions for Glasgow Disability Alliance (GDA) (September 24th), Ando Glaso (Sept 12th) and LGBT Health and Wellbeing (23rd Sept).
Jonny will lead The GDA session which will take place at Calton Heritage and Learning Centre on London Road, from 10:30 - 2:30PM, and is open to anyone with a disability of any age - you just need to sign up to become a member of GDA. GDA can also support with transport (taxis) and will have Personal Assistants on hand to support the general running of the session. For more information, email [email protected]
(The other sessions are ring-fenced for LGBT Health and Wellbeing and Ando Glaso members). Our in-house beginner DJ group with Jonny continues on Friday nights a the Pentagon Business Centre from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. Email [email protected] if you’d like to join
Radio News
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e welcomed Niamh, aka McAlli Magic, one of Jonny’s DJ students, to record her debut mix for The Sound Lab’s relaunch on Clyde Built Radio. Listen back to Niamh’s brilliant high energy mix at the link below.
ICYMI hip hop student Fin (AKA FBAG) joined Adam live at Radio Buena Vida at the start of the month. Listen back to that one to hear Fin reflecting on his lessons with Paque and Konchis, whilst also rapping live on air, at the link below.
Finally, right at the end of the month, longstanding drum tutor Dimitris joined Adam live on air in the Barras Market to reflect on his experiences as a Sound Lab tutor, and to pick some of his favourite music - everything from Greek folk music to Tool! That Clyde Built Radio mix isn’t available to listen back to yet, but as soon as it is we’ll share it with you.
Meet The Tutor: Isa Gordon
Fresh from co-running the Arts in the City sessions with Hannah and Laurie, read on to find out more about Isa, who teaches Production, DJing, Guitar, singing (and a bit of keys for good measure) for us!
Unheard Voices, Unbroken Spirits
Save the date for this exciting new musical by care experienced young people from across West Dunbartonshire, with performances in Clydebank and Dumbarton i October and November. Featuring all-new songs, and a talented cast, we can’t wait to see Unheard Voices, Unbroken Spirits. Once tickets become available on Eventbrite later this month, we’ll share them on our socials, so keep your eyes peeled.
This production has been facilitated by Voices of The Promise, a collaboration between West Dunbartsonshire Council and Action for Children.
Thanks, as ever, to our funders whose generosity enables us to do what we do: Creative Scotland National Lottery Extended Programme Fund; National Lottery Community Fund Young Start; Inspiring Scotland Creative Communities Glasgow; Agnes Hunter Trust; Foundation Scotland (Volant Charitable Trust and Bridging The Gap); and Corra Foundation Henry Duncan Grants.
JULY NEWSLETTER
July has been busy busy! We ran hip hop sessions at G20 Youth Project, guitar lessons at HMP&YOI Polmont, and drop-in taster sessions for groups at Celtic FC Foundation and Govan Community Project’s Homework Club.
Laurie and Hannah even travelled all the way to Inverary to deliver DJ skills workshops for the care experienced community, in partnership with Arygll and Bute Council. Amongst a crowded field, here are some of our favourite highlights from the month of July.
Music for Everyone at Queen’s Park Arena
This week saw the end of our month-long workshop series at Queen’s Park Arena. This year we ran 2 sets of sessions:
Songwriting workshops, delivered in partnership with TAG - The Advisory Group, in which young people with disabilities and additional support needs worked alongside members of the wider community. Ghanaian drumming workshops, open to anyone.
Here Jade West, from TAG sheds some light on the songwriting workshops, and the impact they’ve had for the young people they work with:
“Over the summer, ten young people from our Gamechangers - Extra Time programme took part in songwriting workshops with The Sound Lab at Queen’s Park Arena — and the impact has been truly special. Some came with a love of music, others with the hope of building confidence and making new friends. This collaboration provided the perfect space for both, and it’s been amazing to see our young people flourish, and be brave in trying something new. We are super proud of them in how they represented themselves and the Gamechangers programme.”
“The Sound Lab tutors — Paddy, Eilis, Kenny, and Adam created such an inclusive, welcoming environment. Their adaptable approaches and genuine interest in each young person’s strengths helped everyone feel safe, seen, and inspired. One standout story is how two of our young people, who’d never met before, formed a real friendship, bonded through a common interest in music — they’ve been inseparable ever since.”
“Beyond the weekly sessions, The Sound Lab went above and beyond by signposting further opportunities available to them, tailored to each young person’s interests. Some have already taken up DJ and drumming workshops, while others are now exploring the prospects of one-to-one tuition. This is the kind of partnership that makes lasting change — rooted in creativity, trust, and a shared belief that music truly is for all and a common goal to get young people involved in recreational activity that champions them, and celebrates their gifts and talents. We’re so proud of what’s been achieved and excited for what’s still to come.”
As Jade says, some of the TAG young people also joined us for the West African drumming sessions. Jerry and Laurie had their group learning traditional Ghanaian rhythms together. These 2 friends previously delivered this workshop for us way back in 2022; it was great to be able to introduce a new group of students to the rich, culturally significant Borborbor and Oge rhythms. The good people of Glasgow definitely got on board, with as many as 19 students coming along to these sessions every week.
In total 90 different students joined us across 8 workshops in July; thanks to everyone who braved occasional dark clouds and rain in order to bring the music to Queen’s Park!
If you are a young person aged 16+ with a disability and have recently left school, be sure to check out TAG and the Gamechangers Extra Time programme. It’s a great way to stay active, meet new friends or try something new. Contact Jade and Neil via [email protected] or on WhatsApp via 07990 439 982
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DJ Skills: The Return
This month also saw the return of our popular 8-week DJ course led by Jonny aka Wheelman on Friday evenings at the Sound Lab Hub. It’s great to have 10 dedicated students joining us, each from different backgrounds and each with their own unique taste in music.
The energy can get pretty raucous at times – a proper melting pot of sounds and influences. This course is closed for any further signups, but if you would like to be on the waiting list for the next block of sessions, email [email protected] Thanks to Jonny for steering the ship and to Aidan and Ally, our brilliant volunteers, who have been running a second set up at these sessions.
GMAC x Sound Lab
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In July we joined forces with GMAC, offering young people a chance to develop their film-making skills. In Week 1 James, Lyvi, Jasmine and Jacqueline learned about the fundamentals of documentary filmmaking at GMAC before putting those skills into practice in Week 2, in which they joined us onsite at the Sound Lab Hub and at Queen’s Park Arena. Interviewing Sound Lab staff, students, partners and tutors, the group handled everything from recording audio and shooting film to script development, interview technique, set dressing and more.
Thanks to Anthony, Isa and the team at GMAC for setting up this partnership. It was brilliant to be able to offer Sound Lab students a chance to develop different creative skills, and the group were a pleasure to work with. Watch this space for a final edit, due out shortly!
"The GMAC Cashback for Communities project brought together four talented young people—including two students from The Sound Lab—to produce a short documentary celebrating the organisation’s inspiring work and ethos. As their tutor, I had the pleasure of supporting James, Lyvi, Jasmine, and Jaqueline throughout the process. Over just two weeks, they gained technical skills in camera operation and sound, conducted their own interviews, and crafted a film that genuinely captures the spirit of The Sound Lab. It was incredible to watch them grow—not only in ability but also in confidence—as they collaborated, stretched their creativity, and shared a heartfelt message: The Sound Lab is the best!" - Isa - GMAC tutor.
McAlli Magic, Maryam and FBAG make their radio debuts
Following a programming pause, the excellent team at Clyde Built Radio are back on the airwaves, and the Sound Lab show is back up and running.
Initially joining us as a singing student at the start of the year, Niamh’s eyes lit up when she saw the decks; she started talking about how her Dad DJ’ed loads when she was growing up, even showing Rollo a picture of her balanced on the decks when she was a baby. Well it definitely runs in the family - she switched across to learning DJing with Jonny, and has been crafting some banging techno and hardcore mixes ever since. Tune in on Saturday 2nd Aug from 7PM to hear Niamh aka McAlli Magic making her radio debut at www.clydebuiltradio.com/ or keep your eyes peeled for a listen back link on our socials.
“I really love working with Eilis – she knows my taste more than I do. She’s such a friendly, fun teacher, I think of her more as a friend than a teacher.” Maryam
In case you missed it, Maryam was our previous guest on Radio Buena Vida in July. She absolutely smashed it! A natural on air, Maryam reflected on her formative musical influences and the music of the diaspora, and shared insights into her lessons with Eilis. This episode is such a lovely, reflective listen, featuring music from Abdel Halim Hafez, Dalida, Doja Cat, Hamza Namira and more – plus some great hosting courtesy of Adam. Click the link below to listen back to one of our favourite radio episodes of the year so far:
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Changing gears, our next guest on Radio Buena Vida will be Fin, aka FBAG, who’ll join Adam in the booth on Sunday 10th August to rap live and discuss his lessons with Konchis and Paque. Tune into Radio Buena Vida from 5-6 PM on Sunday 10th August to hear FBAG joining us live, or listen to his recent track, Bricks and Ballys, here.
Reece and Fin at Container Studios
Sound Lab students Reece and Fin have been working with their tutor Paque at his studio within Container Studios on Tuesday nights over the last month.
Moving from the Sound Lab Hub into a professional recording studio gives these guys access to a wider range of creative possibilities, adding fuel to the fire in terms of their creative development. Using the studio environment as a tool, they’ve been listening back and refining their tracks, allowing them to reflect on their progress and grow in confidence.
Meet The Tutor: Eilis O’Keefe
Fresh from co-leading the songwriting sessions in Queen’s Park, and having received some lovely feedback from Maryam in July’s Radio Buena Vida show, this month’s tutor spotlight has to goes to Eilis! Featuring The Singing Kettle, My Chemical Romance and Brassed Off, read on to find out more about what makes Eilis tick musically:
Further Opportunities
FIRST STAGES: Programme for Young and Emerging Songwriters
Run by Moniack Mhor and funded by Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative, FIRST STAGES is a new programme for young / emerging songwriters. In-person workshops will take place in Glasgow, Inverness, Belladrum and Edinburgh, alongside a residential writing week, online masterclasses and recording and performance opportunities – a brilliant opportunity for young songwriters from complete beginners upwards, aged 16-25 (or up to 30 if care experienced).
All sessions are FREE. Find out more at an Info Session on Aug 28th from 6PM – more info here. Any young MC’s should also keep an eye out for PITCH Scotland, Scotland’s international conference on hip hop and underground culture, coming up fast on August 27th-29th.
HipHop Scotland x GLA Recording Studio PRESENTS: Open Mic
Coming up very near to the Sound Lab Hub at GLA Recording Studio on Washington St, this is a great performance opportunity for young MCs, feat. Preacherboy, Mellow Tones, McLaren and more. August 15th 7-10PM Tickets here DM GLA studios on Insta to book a slot to perform.
Aberdeen Music Week: Artist Applications
Aberdeen Music Week is a multi-venue festival taking placein the city across 20-23rd August, combining industry masterclassesand live performance opportunities. They are inviting emerging artistapplications to play the 2025 edition of the festival. Find out more at https://aberdeenmusicweek.com/
JUNE NEWSLETTER
Open Stage Presents: Sound Lab @ Queen’s Park Arena
Following the success of last year’s sessions – in which we offered steelpan, DJing and songwriting sessions - we’re delighted to be returning to Queen’s Park to deliver more free music education for the good people of the Southside and beyond!
We’ve joined forces with the teams at Inhouse and TAG – The Advisory Group to run a series of sessions on Ghanaian Drumming and Songwriting . All sessions are free, and open to absolutely anyone, so tell your friends!
West African Drumming with Laurie and Jerry Learn the traditional Ghanaian rhythms of Borborbor and Oge with drummers Jerry and Laurie. No experience necessary.
Wed 9 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Wed 16 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Wed 23 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Wed 30 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS
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Song writing with Eilis and Paddy
Explore the art of lyrics, melody and the unifying power of music in these inclusive song writing sessions, run in partnership with TAG - The Advisory Group:
Thurs 10 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Thurs 17 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Thurs 24 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS Thurs 31 July 4:15 – 5:30 TICKETS
Wider Programme News in July:
We’re partnering with the Govan Community Project to deliver a number of Taster Sessions for their Homework Club across July and August. The Homework Club offer school support, peer support, and a wide range of associated opportunities for both primary and secondary school aged children in Govan and the surrounding areas – Keith Beattie will be leading these taster sessions.
We’re also partnering with GMAC for the first time in July. Across two weeks a number of Sound Lab students will be working alongside GMAC tutors and peers to develop their filmmaking skills before shooting and editing their own short film, documenting some of our summer programme. Keep your eyes peeled for the results! Our work in Drumchapel High School is finished for the summer.
we’re back also back in Maryhill this month, with Steg G running a series of hip hop, MCing and song writing sessions for the young people at G20 Youth Project.
Finally, on July 30th Laurie and Hannah will be hitting the road to deliver DJ workshops in Inverary as part of Argyll & Bute Council’s summer programme for care experienced young people and their families.
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Kelum on Radio and Refugee Festival Scotland
A massive thank you to our student, Kelum, who joined Adam in the booth at Radio Buena Vida for a special episode focused on Refugee Festival Scotland.
We met Kelum at ‘Rising in Harmony’, our event for Refugee Festival Scotland in 2024, so it was a nice full circle moment as we listened to some of Kelum’s favourite music, and reflected on his Sound Lab guitar lessons with his tutor John.
We were delighted to be invited to run workshops as part of 2 Refugee Festival Scotland events in this year’s programme; in collaboration with our friends at Common Ground we ran a DJ workshop at the launch event on June 13th; Laurie and Paque then ran DJing and Hip Hop / Lyric writing workshops as part of the RFS Community Fair on June 15th, in partnership with the RSNO.
Congratulations to Monica and the team at RFS for another stellar year, and to the wider team at Scottish Refugee Council, who marked their 40th anniversary at this year’s festival.
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Meet The Tutor: Paddy Shand
Ahaed of leading this month’s songwriting sessions in Queen’s Park with Eilis, get to know Sound Lab tutor Paddy and what makes them tick. Featuring Everything Everything, Father John Misty and Jackie Wilson!
MAY NEWSLETTER
Refugee Festival Scotland
We’re delighted to have been invited to take part in this year’s Refugee Festival Scotland, which runs from 13 – 22nd June. This year also marks the 40th anniversary of Scottish Refugee Council, who provide vital support for displaced individuals and families across Scotland. Last year our Rising in Harmony event was part of a rich programme within the festival, and a highlight of our year; we can’t wait to be involved again this year: June 13th Launch Event: Laurie will be running an informal DJ workshop at the festival launch event, taking track requests and inviting audience members to have a shot on the decks from 5:30 – 6:30 PM in the CCA Courtyard
June 15th 12:30 – 2:30 PM: Community Fair w/ the RSNO: Paque and Laurie will be running drop-in songwriting / hiphop / lyric writing and DJing workshops at the Pyramid on June 15th More info here No ticket needed, just drop in and say hi! This year’s theme is ‘Milestones’ The Festival have also teamed up with our pals at Radio Buena Vida, who will produce a number of episodes throughout the festival. Check out the most recent episode from ReQuinha here
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Back to School with Hollybrook Academy & Drumchapel High School
For the last two weeks we’ve partnered with TAG – The Advisory Group, delivering group music making activities for students with additional support needs at Hollybrook Academy, as part of TAG’s Gamechangers Extra Time programme. The pupils have been fantastic; they’re open to trying new things and are learning fast – supported by Paddy and Eilis, they’re working at a number of different stations, experimenting with a range of new and traditional instruments, including guitars, bass, piano, Omnichord, xylophone, Thumbjam and more.
They're a brilliant group, and we’re delighted to get the opportunity to work together; thanks to Neil and Jade at TAG, and Ms Manzor and the team at Hollybrook for making us feel so welcome.
This week also saw our penultimate session of this year’s term at Drumchapel High School’s Learning & Development Unit – a brilliant group of committed young guitarists who have worked with John and Eilis over the last 12 months. We’re looking forward to working with some of the students throughout the summer break, before kicking off with the whole group when term starts up again in mid-August.
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Breathing New Life Into Old Instruments
Thank you to everyone who has donated their old instruments to us recently. In the last few months we’ve been given a Peavey valve bass amp, an Ableton Push, a drum kit and 4 guitars.
Whenever a donation comes in we give it a bit of TLC – thank you to tutor Keith Beattie for his excellent work in this area – refurbishing it, before loaning it out to students so that they can practice and develop their skills. It’s not just instruments either; we recently refurbished a Mac Mini that had been donated by long-term supporter Daniel.
Thanks to our Pentagon neighbor Amy, who donated this beautiful Peavey Raptor; once the input jack had been resoldered by Keith it was good to go and is now being used by Sound Lab student Oleksandra. Do you have any old instruments or equipment gathering dust somewhere? Why not let us take it off your hands and we’ll make sure its put to good use!
A Holyrood Visit
Sound Lab chair Paul Sullivan joined a number of other leading voices from across the Scottish cultural and policy landscape at Holyrood this month (including our own Deni Smith) to celebrate the vital support that the National Lottery offers to communities across Scotland.
Here at The Sound Lab we are currently supported by National Lottery Community Fund Young Start; with their help, we’re continuing to provide free tuition, instrument loans, interpreter costs and more for Sound Lab students, addressing inequitable access to music and creative education in Scotland - because music matters!
Nicky and Rollo on Radio Buena Vida
Longstanding Sound Lab tutor Nicky Murray joined Rollo in the Radio Buena Vida booth for an hour of music and chat earlier this month. As well as talking about his brilliant recent record ‘How Long’, Nicky played some new songwriting from the brilliant Seidawi sisters, a previously unheard recording from Kieron’s time in Calton studios last year, and tons of his favourite recent music.
The episode also features a mini-interview with current student Maryam, who has been learning guitar with Eilis. Thanks to Nicky, who was as thoughtful and gracious as ever, for giving up his time.
Meet The Tutor: Kim Grant
We welcomed 3 new tutors to the team this month: Patsy Tchimoa-Ouethy - who has been leading dance lessons for us with SOHTIS this month - Kim Grant and Kenny Bates. Get to know Kim – aka Raveloe – in this mini-interview.
Thanks, as ever, to our funders whose generosity enables us to do what we do: Creative Scotland National Lottery Extended Programme Fund; National Lottery Community Fund Young Start; Inspiring Scotland Creative Communities Glasgow; The Robertson Trust and Corra Foundation Henry Duncan Grants.
APRIL NEWSLETTER
Kiltwalk Kindness
A massive thank you to everyone who supported Team Sound Lab as we took on the Kiltwalk for the first time ever, walking the 23 miles from Glasgow Green to Loch Lomond on Sunday. It was great to fly the flag for the Sound Lab at this brilliant event, which saw 19,000 walkers take part across 2 days, raising funds for 1,100 different Scottish charities. Thanks to your incredible support we were able to raise over £1300 to tackle inequitable access to music and the arts - because music matters!
We had a belter of a time, meeting lots of great folk along the way, and were pretty lucky with the weather too. The blisters are healing up nicely, and the muscles are just about returning to normal, but you should have seen the army of walking wounded getting off the lower level at Central Station on the train back from Balloch and hobbling our way up the steps. Well worth it, and a fantastic day out – roll on next year!
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Celtic Foundation x Sound Lab:
Extra Time Community Games
Back in October last year Keith and John teamed up to provide guitar, production, ukulele and DJing opportunities to youngsters in the East End as part of the Celtic Foundation’s October half-term programme. It was a great week for all concerned, and 2 participants ended up coming on board and joining the Sound Lab for 1:1 lessons off the back of those sessions.
We were delighted then when Stevie and the team at the Celtic Foundation got in touch and invited us back to Parkhead for April. This time Keith and Sonia tutored for us, and due to the number of young people wanting to take part we also brought a volunteer – Hugh – along with us for the first time – Hugh was a huge help, and made a massive difference across the week. Supporting over 40 young people a day, the team did a fantastic job, and were lucky enough to get invited pitchside for a behind the scenes tour of Celtic Park during some downtime as well - get in!
New Partners: The Advisory Group, SOHTIS, One Community Scotland
We’re delighted to be partnering with TAG – The Advisory Group – for the first time later this month. Together we’ll support young adults with disabilities and additional support needs at Hollybrook Academy, as part of The Advisory Group’s Gamechangers programme.
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TAG do fantastic work supporting young adults with disabilities;
this weekend they ran their flagship event – Strictly All Ability – in which disabled dancers from across Scotland paired up with a professional dancing partner for an inclusive dancing extravaganza, competing under the mirrorball at the Hilton Doubletree in Glasgow. Be sure to check out their Instagram to find out more.
TAG are just one of a number of new partners we’ve connected with recently. Earlier in April we teamed up with SOHTIS – Survivors of Human Trafficking in Scotland, who, as luck would have it, are also based here at the Pentagon Business Centre.
We’ll be providing regular group workshops and taster sessions for their Wednesday group. The group are keen to get cracking, and burst into an impromptu multi-lingual group singing session and drum circle when they arrived in the Sound Lab Hub earlier this month. This month Adam also visited young people at One Community Scotland, and Who Cares? Scotland to explore potential partnerships and referral pathways; we’re delighted that these organizations have chosen to work with us, and look forward to sharing more highlights in the weeks and months to come.
Fire in the Booth - Sean on Radio Buena Vida!
Also in April, our fantastic singing student, Sean, made his radio debut – singing live on Radio Buena Vida! We’ve had live rap in the booth, but singing in the booth feels like a first for the Sound Lab. Across an hour with Adam, Sean spoke about his musical inspirations, reflecting on his lessons with Sound Lab tutor Rose whilst his family and friends blew up the chat box with messages of support. You nailed it Sean, what a legend. Listen back here or click the button below
Our other community radio partners, Clyde Built Radio are pausing new programming briefly to regroup and reassess before relaunching refreshed in June, meaning no CBR episode this month or next month. What Andrew and Claudia and the team have achieved across 5 years of community radio is remarkable - watch this space or follow their socials for the latest updates.
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Bass Line Workshops: Radio Buena Vida
Our good friends at Radio Buena Vida have partnered with Creative Scotland’s Youth Music Initiative to offer a series of workshops across June, July and August, in DJing, mixing, music production, beat making, sound design and more. Alongside tutored sessions and practice opportunities they’re also introducing a ‘Masterclass Session’ for each 6 week workshop series, where an industry trailblazer will talk you through their journey in the industry, and teach in-person. Deadline for applications is 18th May. To apply: 2025 Application Form
The Sound of Collective Action ft. KTAB 3/5/25
Our very own Adam Khettabi, aka KTAB will be taking to the decks at Stereo this weekend, alongside the likes of Hiba, Carmen Baia and LEAHGTE for a joint fundraiser for Refuweegee and Radio Buena Vida. A stomping lineup for a great cause – final tickets on RA via the button below:
Thanks, as ever, to our funders whose generosity enables us to do what we do: Creative Scotland National Lottery Extended Programme Fund; National Lottery Community Fund Young Start; Inspiring Scotland Creative Communities Glasgow; The Robertson Trust and Corra Foundation Henry Duncan Grants.
MARCH NEWSLETTER
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Creative Communities Glasgow
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Adam and Rollo do The Kiltwalk
Later this month Adam and Rollo will be tying their laces, donning their branded t-shirts and hoping for sunshine as they prepare to take part in Scotland’s biggest fundraising event of the year – The Kiltwalk! Every penny raised will go towards our tutoring budget for 2025, and, thanks to the partnership between JustGiving and The Kiltwalk, The Sound Lab will keep 100% of donations PLUS Gift Aid.
To support these likely lads on their 23 miles of bad chat between Glasgow Green and Loch Lomond on April 27th, click the button below!
Gig Buddies Glasgow - Screenprinting Workshop
This month we’re delighted to be renewing our partnership with the excellent team at Gig Buddies Glasgow (run by Thera Trust). Laurie delivered a DJ workshop for a really keen group of student DJ’s back in November 2024, in which he focused on beatmatching, EQing, and mixing, and spoke about the different approaches he would take to DJing for the radio vs DJing in a nightclub environment.
For this next instalment of our partnership, Nkem Okwechime, head honcho of M.R.L.C., will be delivering a screen-printing work shop for the group. Watch this space for photos of the session!
Music Opportunities for those with Lived Experience of Displacement
In March Laurie and Hannah ran a number of drop-in DJ sessions with Refuweegee at their brilliant new home on George Square. Refuweegee support a wide range of participants with lived experience of displacement, so the selections were as diverse and exciting as you’d expect – everything from 80’s Afghani disco through to Afrobeat, Farsi music and more. This has been another really rewarding collaboration, full of laughter and great music; a number of students expressed an interest in more sessions, so we’re actively exploring ways of continuing the partnership.
March also saw the final session of Common Sound, our partnership with Common Ground. Taking place in their space at the CCA on Sauchiehall St, these sessions have presented participants with a range of different opportunities over the last six months, including singing, drums, guitar, podcasting, production and most recently, DJing with Isa. The tutors have enjoyed this partnership as much as the students, with sessions becoming a real site of cross-cultural exchange, learning and inspiration. Thanks to Luna, Nahom and Nusa at Common Ground for making us feel so welcome.
Rebecca Vasmant on Telly!
Longtime Sound Lab tutor and ally Rebecca Vasmant is profiled in latest episode of The Entertainment Mix on BBC Scotland. She explores her family’s remarkable history of triumph in the face of adversity, and it’s influence on her new record, which is focused on self-discovery and self-acceptance, as well as her wider work as a producer, label boss, and DJ. Catch up now on iPlayer via the button below:
Ed Sheeran Foundation
Following a tour of grassroots music projects across the UK, which took in our friends at Tinderbox Projects in Edinburgh, The Ed Sheeran Foundation has begun an urgent campaign to protect and grow music education in the UK.
Backed by over 600 luminaries from the UK arts scene, including Stormzy, Elton John, Annie Lennox, and many more, the campaign is putting pressure on the UK government, and devolved governments, to do more to ensure equitable access to music education.
Proposals include radically reinvigorating access to music in schools, creating 500 creative industry apprenticeships,launching a UK wide fund for grassroots music collaboration and more. Find out more about the full list of proposals, and the wider efforts to empower young people through music education, via their Instagram, or on their website via the link below:
Radio Roundup
Listen back as longstanding Sound Lab legend Keith Jones joins Adam live in the booth at Radio Buena Vida. Alongside some gloriously eclectic selections Keith shines a light on our partnership work with PAMIS, and shares tales from across his many years of tutoring with The Sound Lab! Click the link below to listen back:
At the Sound Lab we’re dependant upon a network of professionals across the statutory and third sector to refer young people in their care to The Sound Lab.
Featuring interviews with Jamie Dale (Community Links Practitioner) and Lorraine Ward and Deni Smith from Glasgow HSCP, our latest episode on Clyde Built Radio celebrated those professionals who go above and beyond to ensure that the children and young people they support can access music education and creative opportunities.
This episode was broadcast last Friday - a listen back link will be made available shortly.
Further Opportunities :
Soundplay Projects with Hear My Music Wed April 2nd
Another great, affordable CPD opportunity for artists and creative practitioners this week via our friends at Soundplay projects, including a sound bath and a talk on accessible workshops for those with disabilities, from Emma Carr, Creative Director of Hear My Music. Full details here
Off The Record: LIVE Wednesday 2nd April - ONLINE
Join Off The Record for a free online webinar for 16-25 year olds on the mechanics of the live music industry. What’s the difference between a booking agent and a promoter? How can you develop your networking skills and grow your audience? A great opportunity for young artists looking for early career support.
More info at: http://wide.ink/OTR25LIVE
Givin It Laldie on the lookout for Board Members
Our friends at Givin It Laldie are on the lookout for people to help steer the organisation and help the Gorbals to keep givin it laldie! They’re looking for people who know best about what people in the Gorbals want and need, and people who have experience with things like fundraising, HR, governance and finance. Whether you are an experienced board member, or have no experience whatsoever but believe in the power of music to support individuals and communities, their team can fully support you to develop in the role, and want to hear from you. Full role description and information available here: Join our Board of Trustees - Givin’ it Laldie, community music charity in the Gorbals
Thanks, as ever, to our funders whose generosity enables us to do what we do: Creative Scotland National Lotteries Extended Programme Fund; National Lottery Young Start; Inspiring Scotland Creative Communities Glasgow; The Robertson Trust and Corra Foundation Henry Duncan Grants.
FEBRUARYS NEWS LETTER
Bloc+ Student Showcase
We’ll be bringing together students, tutors, volunteers and supporters for our first social event of the year at Bloc+ in Glasgow on Sunday February 23rd. It’ll be an opportunity for students and tutors to perform live, and Sound Lab students will also be helping to run the sound desk as well!
A massive thank you and well done to all the Sound Lab students, DJs and tutors who performed at our Bloc+ event on Sunday 23rd Feb. The young people did a fantastic job, and there was a really diverse range of genres and styles on display, from reggae and trap to pop, rock and hip hop.
It was a really satisfying Sound Lab community moment, with tutors, students, volunteers and supporters all coming together to celebrate young talent. We had 2 sets of siblings performing together, some students performing live for the first time, and some students from different groups joining forces for the first time too. Special thanks to the Sound Lab tutors, Paque, Nicky Murray and Keith Beattie for coming down to support and inspire these young talents.
Thanks to everyone who came down, and to Bloc+ for their support for grassroots music – over £350 raised for further Sound Lab sessions!
A massive thank you and well done to all the Sound Lab students, DJs and tutors who performed at our Bloc+ event on Sunday 23rd Feb. The young people did a fantastic job, and there was a really diverse range of genres and styles on display, from reggae and trap to pop, rock and hip hop.
It was a really satisfying Sound Lab community moment, with tutors, students, volunteers and supporters all coming together to celebrate young talent. We had 2 sets of siblings performing together, some students performing live for the first time, and some students from different groups joining forces for the first time too. Special thanks to the Sound Lab tutors, Paque, Nicky Murray and Keith Beattie for coming down to support and inspire these young talents.
Thanks to everyone who came down, and to Bloc+ for their support for grassroots music – over £350 raised for further Sound Lab sessions!
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KILTWALK 2025
We’re delighted to announce that The Sound Lab will be taking part in Scotland’s biggest charity fundraising walk- the Kiltwalk - for the first time ever this year. Woop! Get ready to tie those laces and pray for good weather as we raise vital funds to help the Sound Lab provide free music education to those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford it.
The full Glasgow edition takes in a route between Glasgow Green and Loch Lomond, but walkers can choose between 3 different distances: The Wee Wander (3 miles – good for little legs); The Big Stroll (14 Miles) or The Mighty Stride (23 Miles).
Due to high demand, a second date has been added, so fundraisers can now choose between Saturday 26th April (just The Big Stroll) and Sunday 27th April (all 3 options). We have an official Sound Lab team who’ll be taking part in The Mighty Stride from 10AM on Sunday 27th April. Want to walk with us? Just click ‘Yes I will be a member of a Team’ and enter the team name (‘Sound Lab Dream Team’) and the name of the Team Captain (Rollo Strickland).
It costs £20 to register (or less for the smaller distances) and we can cover the cost of registering for you if you commit to raising over £100. Just email [email protected] and we’ll send you over a discount code, and some more information. Anyone who signs up is also automatically entered into the prize draw to win a car worth £30,000 as well, courtesy of Arnold Clark!
Please note - The Mighty Stride sold out by end of February last year, so if you’re up for joining us, don’t hang about!
The full Glasgow edition takes in a route between Glasgow Green and Loch Lomond, but walkers can choose between 3 different distances: The Wee Wander (3 miles – good for little legs); The Big Stroll (14 Miles) or The Mighty Stride (23 Miles).
Due to high demand, a second date has been added, so fundraisers can now choose between Saturday 26th April (just The Big Stroll) and Sunday 27th April (all 3 options). We have an official Sound Lab team who’ll be taking part in The Mighty Stride from 10AM on Sunday 27th April. Want to walk with us? Just click ‘Yes I will be a member of a Team’ and enter the team name (‘Sound Lab Dream Team’) and the name of the Team Captain (Rollo Strickland).
It costs £20 to register (or less for the smaller distances) and we can cover the cost of registering for you if you commit to raising over £100. Just email [email protected] and we’ll send you over a discount code, and some more information. Anyone who signs up is also automatically entered into the prize draw to win a car worth £30,000 as well, courtesy of Arnold Clark!
Please note - The Mighty Stride sold out by end of February last year, so if you’re up for joining us, don’t hang about!
The Islanders: Come Together
We're delighted that The Islanders - a group of talented students from the University of Glasgow - have chosen The Sound Lab as their nominated charity partner for their upcoming fundraising concert.
Formed by Musical Director Anne Hornman in 2022 for a production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, the group have gone on to run a number of charity concerts and become a performance platform for students within the University of Glasgow community. Taking place at the University of Glasgow Concert Hall, the concert will bring together ensembles, singer-songwriters, soloists and bands from across the university community, raising vital funds for The Sound Lab in the process.
Formed by Musical Director Anne Hornman in 2022 for a production of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, the group have gone on to run a number of charity concerts and become a performance platform for students within the University of Glasgow community. Taking place at the University of Glasgow Concert Hall, the concert will bring together ensembles, singer-songwriters, soloists and bands from across the university community, raising vital funds for The Sound Lab in the process.
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Mix and Match DJ Sessions and Open Production Sessions
Our popular ‘Mix and Match’ open DJ sessions with Wheelman are back up and running on Fridays at The Pentagon Business Centre from 6 – 8. Sessions will run on the following dates:
January 31st February 7th/ 14th / 21st / 18th
March 7th/ 14th / 21st / 28th April 4th
To sign up click the button below or email [email protected]
January 31st February 7th/ 14th / 21st / 18th
March 7th/ 14th / 21st / 28th April 4th
To sign up click the button below or email [email protected]
Our open Production sessions with Laurie are also back on, taking place every second Sunday in the Pentagon. Dates for this block of lessons are:
Feb : 2nd / 16th March : 2nd / 16th / 30th
Apr : 13th / 27th May : 11th
To sign up with Laurie click the button below or email [email protected]
Radio Roundup
Jollof Nice and Shedcat, two DJ’s from our Friday Mix n’ Match classes, took to the Radio Buena Vida airwaves for a cracking in-person B2B session on February 9th. Props to Stefano and Georgia for your excellent selections, and for coming down and bringing the energy for us at Bloc+ as well. Click below to listen back to these 2 in action.
This month was LGBT+ History Month. Thank you to the wonderful Sophie Lake of LGBT Health and Wellbeing, who joined Adam this week to pre-record an interview for The Sound Lab Radio. Reflecting on their advocacy work, and the support that they offer the queer community in Scotland as well as our partnership work last year, it’s a great conversation, soundtracked by some excellent song choices from the LGBT H&W staff team. The episode goes live on Clyde Built Radio TODAY at 2PM. If you miss it, don’t fret – we'll be posting a listen back link shortly.
This month was LGBT+ History Month. Thank you to the wonderful Sophie Lake of LGBT Health and Wellbeing, who joined Adam this week to pre-record an interview for The Sound Lab Radio. Reflecting on their advocacy work, and the support that they offer the queer community in Scotland as well as our partnership work last year, it’s a great conversation, soundtracked by some excellent song choices from the LGBT H&W staff team. The episode goes live on Clyde Built Radio TODAY at 2PM. If you miss it, don’t fret – we'll be posting a listen back link shortly.
COMMON SOUND & COMMON WHEEL
Our partnership with the good folks at Common Ground continued this month. Working under the name ‘Common Sound’ we’ve been helping individuals with lived experience of displacement to explore and enjoy making music together. Following on from recent singing sessions with Wiktoria, and drum lessons with Dimitris and Laurie, the group are now trying their hand at podcasting and community radio, with support from Alex Smoke. We’re looking forward to hearing what they come up with!
We’ve also been supporting individuals recovering from mental ill health up at Gartnavel General Hospital this month, in partnership with Common Wheel. Laurie, Nick and Isa have been working with 2 enthusiastic groups of students, who’ve been learning how to scratch, beatmatch and mix.
Splitting the groups across 2 rooms, the sessions have proved to be really popular; the students have been really welcoming, and are picking things up quickly. Thanks to Common Wheel for having us! We also have new partnership projects kicking off in March with Refuweegee, G15, & G20 Youth Club, HMP&YOI Polmont and more – watch this space for more details.
Boiler Room: Broadcast Lab
Boiler Room are on the lookout for musicians, collectives and curators to pitch a project to be streamed on their channel this year. They’re particulalry interested in platforming under-represented artists, marginalised communities and progrsesive collaborations. Deadline is March 10th 2025 – find out more at the link below
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