Inside Track, a new development programme for music creators launches today (Wednesday 4 August) as applications open. It will support songwriters and composers experiencing barriers to start a career by providing a year-long immersive introduction to the music industry. Applicants must currently not have investment from a manager, publisher or record label.
Four participants will have a year-long unique experience working alongside Ivor Novello Award winning producer, songwriter and drummer Cassell The Beatmaker. Cassell has worked with a diverse range of artists including Plan B, The Streets, Duffy, Beverly Knight and Ms Dynamite. Inside Track is delivered by Cassell’s community interest company In The Making, in partnership with Pioneer supporter PPL, The Ivors Academy and The Ivors Academy Trust. As a Pioneer supporter, PPL is the first significant backer of Inside Track and will be providing funding for the programme as well as industry expertise through workshops with the participants.
Using Cassell and In The Making’s expertise, successful applicants will receive direct experience of the music industry across production, songwriting, image and brand development, business planning and industry networking. Inside Track includes a live performance event for the creators to showcase their work and celebrate their accomplishments.
Cassell The Beatmaker said: Winning an Ivor was a career defining moment that opened doors and made people see me differently. Using my 25 years’ experience I want to create the same kind of opportunity for artists with the talent but without the connections, knowledge or financial backing to start a solid career in music.”
Peter Leathem, chief executive, PPL and trustee, The Ivors Academy Trust, said: ‘I am delighted that PPL is the first significant supporter of Inside Track, providing funding and expertise which will create new opportunities for underrepresented music creators and performers. By helping them overcome the structural barriers they face, we can help to move the music industry forward and ensure it more accurately reflects our diverse society.’
Graham Davies, chief executive, The Ivors Academy, said: ‘We’re honoured to be working with Cassell and his talented team, and are hugely grateful to PPL for backing this brilliant new development scheme and becoming the first Pioneer Supporter of The Ivors Academy Trust. Talent, creativity and commitment are what matter, not who you are or where you’re from. We’re excited to see how this new inside track creates fresh opportunities for up-and-coming music creators.’
