Over the BRITS weekend in March, eight young people had the opportunity to visit Warner Chappell Music’s head office to gain insight into the workings of one of the world’s leading music publishers and learn how to optimise their content on YouTube, with a behind-the-scenes look at digital strategies for music creators, as well as crucial insights to demystify the industry and the roles within it. The experience culminated with a visit to the prestigious BRIT Awards, networking with industry influencers and a chance for the group to immerse themselves in the UK’s most coveted music event.  

This unique collaboration focussed on equipping the young people with the skills they need to break into the music industry through hands-on learning, mentorship, and unparalleled access to key industry players, whilst aiming to drive diversity and inclusion in the sector.

At the end of April, Warner Chappell Music and BBC Introducing joined The Music Works in Gloucester for a two-day instalment of Creative Futures, their music industry conference. The event combined a one-day industry insider unveil with an intensive songwriting bootcamp.

Day one opened with an in-conversation with Warner Chappell Music UK’s SVP and Head of A&R, Amber Davis, Gemma Cropper, Senior Events Manager for the BRITS and Mercury Music Prize and record producer Parker Ighile, and continued with expert panel discussions on publishing, sync opportunities, and A&R listening sessions, giving participants direct access to music industry leaders and allowing the young artists to receive immediate and direct feedback on their work. Day two was dedicated to an intensive songwriting camp for emerging talent to collaborate with industry professionals on real briefs.

 “These collaborations represents exactly what we strive to achieve at The Music Works” says Malaki Patterson, CEO of The Music Works, “The music industry thrives on diverse voices and perspectives, yet the routes for those living outside of London can be unclear and inaccessible for many talented young people. Seeing them immerse themselves in these environments, connecting with industry professionals and gaining practical insights, reinforces our belief that exposure and opportunity are powerful catalysts for change.”

“It made me realise how achievable and in-reach a successful career in the music and entertainment industry is, which has completely shifted my mindset to pursuing what I want and has boosted my drive to make it happen,” says Mason Rendell, artist name MX2, “I’m feeling very inspired and can’t thank The Music Works enough for the opportunity they have provided.”

Guy Moot, Co-Chair and CEO, Warner Chappell Music, commented, “Over the last few years, we have worked closely with The Music Works as we aim to make the industry more accessible to people from across the country and from all walks of life. We’ve seen first-hand some of the incredible talent that has come through The Music Works, and by welcoming the group into our office and studios to meet with our teams, we hope we are able to further help in their journeys. I’d like to congratulate Malaki on his new position as CEO – he has been invaluable in growing and developing our partnership and I’m looking forward to working with him in his new role.”

Gemma Cropper, Senior Events Manager, BRIT Awards & TMW Trustee, added, “Growing up in an environment where access into the creative industries was limited, I am passionate about helping create pathways for young people into the music industry. Initiatives like this from The Music Works are exactly what we need. We know there is so much talent out there on both sides of the mic, so opening young people’s eyes and ears to the wide array of jobs and opportunities within the industry and providing them with the essential skills they need, outside of traditional educational pathways, is absolutely crucial.

The Music Works is a Gloucestershire based charity founded in 2004 with a mission to transform young lives through music. Specialists in working with young people in challenging circumstances, the charity supports 4,500 children and young people each year through innovative music programmes, workshops, and projects for young people of all abilities and reaches a further 3,000 through events. The Music Works aims to empower individuals, build communities, and create positive social change. 

For more information about their incredible work visit: www.themusicworks.org.uk or find them on social media @themusicworksglos