The Association of Independent Music (AIM) has opened applications for its new Amplify apprenticeship programme, launched in partnership with Amazon Music, Women in CTRL, and All Things People & Talent.
Six AIM label members have signed up to provide apprentice placements, with opportunities will be available at Bella Union (Brighton), Come Play With Me (Leeds), Fear Records (Manchester), Fire Records (London), Glasgow Underground (London), and Heavenly Recordings (London).
Backed by a contribution from Amazon’s £2.5m apprenticeship fund, Amplify has been set up to improve diversity and inclusion in the independent music sector. Successful applicants will take on Label Assistant roles, providing both administrative and creative support with day-to-day operations. As well as being at the heart of new release campaigns, applicants will work closely with A&R teams to focus on identifying, championing and growing women and non-binary talent on rosters.
Set to begin in July, the apprentice placements will last 15 months and be paid at least the Real Living Wage, in line with AIM's own commitment as a Real Living Wage employer. Amazon Music will provide labels with a salary contribution. Apprentices will benefit from mentoring from AIM, Women in CTRL and Amazon Music teams, as well as free access to AIM’s educational resources and networking events.
Recruitment and training will be overseen by Arit Eminue, founder of All Things People & Talent, who has extensive experience of delivering successful apprenticeship schemes within the music, film and TV industries.
Applications are open now and will close Monday 24 April. More information is available here.
Nadia Khan, AIM Chair & Women in CTRL Founder, says, ‘Amplify represents a major step forward in Women in CTRL’s mission to lowering the barrier for entry and advancing gender equality in the music industry. With women and non-binary artists still underrepresented on label rosters, Amplify is an active initiative in accelerating change and tackling this industry-wide challenge. We are grateful for the support of Amazon Music, providing paid apprenticeships for those looking to gain valuable experience and make their mark, and we hope to see real progress in improving diversity and inclusion within the independent music sector. I encourage aspiring music professionals to apply and join us on this exciting journey.’
