WHAT IS INVOLVED?
On mjf soundcheck, artists will:
- Write a new song or instrumental piece that includes improvisation, with guidance from your mentor and inspiration from the mjf team.
- Be paired with a mentor from our mjf hothouse programme for three one-hour sessions. This mentor offers musical, personal and professional support, as well as insights into how they progressed their musical careers.
- Be paired with an industry professional who can offer inspiration and guidance tailored to your journey. Previous rounds included David Agnew (Artistic Director at The Met in Bury, Manchester Folk Festival), Steve Lawson (internationally renowned bassist), Graham McKenzie (Artistic Director of Huddersfield Contemporary Music Festival) Clare Morel (Session Vocalist and Community Musician), Ed Kainyek (the founder of Manchester’s jam night scene).
- Meet one-to-one with mjf Artistic Director Steve Mead, to explore new music, receive a personalised playlist and delve into what makes your music unique.
- Form lasting relationships with the mjf team, industry professionals and the other musicians.
- Receive feedback on the music you create over the programme at our showcase, at which everyone you’ve met along the way will be present!
WHO CAN APPLY?
Soundcheck is completely free and open to artists who:
- are based in one of the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester
- are aged 18-25 (up to 25 years and 11 months is fine)
- have some experience of writing, making and/or performing music (in a band or by yourself)
- have some interest in improvisation and exploring the avenues this can open up in their music
APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED. Don’t worry – they’ll reopen in 2023!
QUESTIONS?
If you have access needs or require materials in alternative formats, just ask!
Check out our FAQs page to make sure soundcheck is right for you, it could be that you’re more suited to hothouse – so read both and if you’re still unsure, email talent@manchesterjazz.com
Soundcheck is supported by funding from Arts Council England and Greater Manchester Combined Authority. mjf is a PRS Foundation Talent Development Partner in association with Youth Music.
