The Prince's Trust announces residential course

If you're interested in pursuing a musical career, then the Prince's Trust 'Sound Live' residential course is just what you've been waiting for.

There are places for 30 unemployed young people aged 18 to 25 who are not in full-time education on the special course, which takes place between July 22 and 27 in Belfast. Participants will be given the chance to learn about their chosen instrument, the music business, song writing and how to pursue their musical dreams. Professional musicians will provide guidance on a variety of subjects, including, improvisation, PA systems, playing live and the music business.

The course will be co-ordinated by Brian Irvine - a local musician with an international reputation, who is also widely recognised as one of the world's brightest new composers. The course is free for all participants and travel and accommodation are covered.

Participants will also take place in a celebration concert of their work on July 26, performing before a live audience and young people who have been previously supported by The Prince's Trust - Northern Ireland.

This is the fourth year that 'Sound Live' has taken place in Northern Ireland. Support from Queen's University Belfast, North Down and Ards Institute of Further and Higher Education, the Community Fund, NIMC, New Deal and Cool FM has been central to the success of the programme.

A leading charity for young people, the Prince's Trust carry out vital work in helping young people to develop self-confidence, learn new skills, get into work and start businesses. Established in 1976, to date, the Prince's Trust has supported over 7,000 young people.

Many of the young people who attended previous 'Sound Live' courses have gone on to perform at Prince's Trust events. Two groups, Cadenza and Roo Nation, have performed for HRH The Prince of Wales.

Cadenza were also picked from over 100 bands to support Sinead Lohan, who sang alongside Mary Black on the 'Woman's Heart' tour and played alongside Brian Kennedy for the 'Generation 2000 Gala concert at Belfast's Waterfront Hall.

They were chosen as finalists for the 1999 2FM/Jacob's Song contest.

(KMcA)