Coldplay’s Generous Donation Fuels New Opportunities for Young Musicians in Frome

Coldplay has once again proven their commitment to inspiring the next generation, making a heartfelt donation to support young musicians in Frome.

Following their unforgettable performance at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, Coldplay extended their gratitude to the town of Frome, where they had rehearsed their headline set at the iconic Cheese and Grain venue. Their donation will help open doors for young musicians by funding access to the newly developed Bert Jansch Studio, a state-of-the-art recording facility for aspiring talent.

Coldplay’s Contribution to Frome’s Musical Community

Coldplay’s donation is far more than a simple gesture—it’s a transformative investment in the future of music. The funds will enable the Cheese and Grain, in collaboration with the local youth charity Young People Frome, to launch the Bert Jansch Studio Music Development Programme for Young People.

This programme, starting in January, will offer young musicians aged 12 to 18 monthly Sunday sessions. These workshops aim to teach ensemble playing, enhance creativity, and build crucial studio management skills to help participants achieve polished, professional recordings.

A Unique Auction Initiative

In addition to their monetary donation, Coldplay supported the initiative by purchasing all their own records and CDs from Frome’s beloved independent record store, Raves from the Grave. They signed every item and returned them for auction, with 100% of the proceeds going toward funding music opportunities for local youth.

This creative fundraising effort not only raised significant funds but also drew attention to the programme and Frome’s thriving artistic culture.

Programme Highlights and Opportunities

The Bert Jansch Studio Music Development Programme is designed to cater to a diverse range of young people, regardless of their musical background or current circumstances:

• Monthly Studio Sessions (January–April): Young musicians will collaborate as ensembles, exploring creative techniques while gaining valuable experience in a professional studio environment.
• Partnerships with Schools (May, June, September): Primary and secondary school students will have the opportunity to engage in music production, regardless of their prior experience.
• Support for NEET Youth (July, October, November): Sessions will be dedicated to young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET), providing them with an immersive and transformative experience in music production.

Expert Guidance and Inclusive Access

Each session will be led by James Brookes, a qualified youth worker who ensures the programme is accessible to all participants. Brookes will work with applicants to assign them to the most suitable sessions based on their individual needs and aspirations.

“These sessions aim to inspire creativity, collaboration, and confidence in young people. The experience of working in a professional recording studio will not only hone their musical skills but also teach valuable life lessons about teamwork, time management, and dedication,” said Brookes.

Collaboration and Vision

Steve Macarthur, director of the Cheese and Grain, expressed his excitement for the project:

“This unique partnership has given us the opportunity to launch a groundbreaking initiative that combines professional resources with the passion of our local community. Coldplay’s support has been instrumental in making this vision a reality.”

Azeema Caffoor, coordinator at Young People Frome, highlighted the high demand for the sessions, urging interested participants to book early as the programme is free but has limited availability.

Coldplay’s Legacy of Giving Back

Coldplay’s involvement reflects their ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Known for their environmental and social initiatives, the band’s support for Frome’s young talent ensures their legacy extends beyond their global success, leaving a lasting impact on local communities.

What This Means for Frome

Frome is quickly becoming a hub for music innovation and creativity, thanks to partnerships like this. The Bert Jansch Studio Music Development Programme not only provides opportunities for aspiring musicians but also enhances the town’s reputation as a cultural hotspot.

With Coldplay’s generous contribution and the dedication of local organizations, Frome’s young musicians are set to thrive, unlocking new potential and possibly shaping the future of music.

Conclusion

Coldplay’s support for the Bert Jansch Studio Music Development Programme showcases the power of giving back. Through their donation and creative initiatives, the band has empowered Frome’s youth to pursue their dreams in music. This program promises to be a cornerstone for nurturing talent and inspiring creativity for years to come.

For more information about the programme or to book a session, visit the Cheese and Grain website.