Designed to create mutually rewarding collaborations, the initiative will establish a wide network of partnerships between The Ivors Academy and leading universities, colleges and organisations across the country, offering a framework of compelling activities, benefits and services to support the next generation of creative talent.
In Winter 2019 as part of the Network, we are launching our Youth Council. Establishing The Ivors Academy Youth Council advisory group will provide young creators with an opportunity to play a direct role in the Academy’s campaigning efforts, awards, events, and much more. All members of the Youth Council will be eligible to stand to be a full Board Director of The Ivors Academy – a vital position that provides the opportunity to help shape and influence the future livelihoods of songwriters and composers.
Martyn Ware, songwriter and Board Director of The Ivors Academy says:
“The Ivors Academy has been working tirelessly to develop a new strategy to engage and promote youth participation, and we are thrilled to announce The Ivors Academy Youth Network which will educate and empower young creators. In today’s rapidly changing world, they need our help – and we need their voices and ideas. This will help create a more vibrant and energetic attitude for The Ivors Academy, and a more sustainable economic future for all music creators.”
The Ivors Academy Youth Network has evolved from the Academy’s mission to protect and promote a strong and diverse music eco-system, to enable young music creators to flourish and contribute to the UK’s leading music economy. Forging close ties with music educators and students will build on the Academy’s campaigning efforts for a strong talent pipeline to allow for more accessible and rewarding careers in music.
Graham Davies, CEO of The Ivors Academy says:
“This is a first of its kind opportunity for young music creators to play a vital part in shaping not only the future of The Ivors Academy but the songwriting and composing industry at large. We are committed to bring younger, more diverse voices into our organisation and are calling on academic institutions across the country to share our vision and help us champion young creative talent.”
Dr Tom Attah, Course Leader of BMus Popular Music Performance at Leeds Arts University has said:
“As Course Leader for Popular Music Performance at Leeds Arts University, I am very pleased to be supporting The Ivors Academy in this new, youth-focused and inclusive initiative.”
Amanda Maxwell, UK Music Futures representative has said:
“It is great that The Ivors Academy are recognising the need to foster accessibility and intersectionality by creating a platform that means a wider range of writers can contribute to such a prestigious organisation. We can all only do our best with the opportunities given to us, by creating this initiative The Ivors Academy are building important pathways for future generations”
For further information visit ivorsacademy.com/youth-network
