BBC Radio & Music has launched Open Music, a new training scheme for creatives and musicians of all genres, styles and backgrounds.
Open to applicants aged 18 and above from across the UK, the scheme will provide participants with a tailor-made programme covering making music, presenting, radio and event production, and sound recording and engineering.
The scheme is open to all, regardless of qualifications or experience, and the BBC is keen to hear from those from Black, Asian or ethnically diverse communities. Candidates must have an interest in the creative industries and a desire to learn.
The BBC hopes that the programme will develop new collaborations and ideas that reflect today’s audience for live orchestral music.
Alan Davey, controller BBC Radio 3, said: ‘Open Music is an important way to engage people of all classes and backgrounds and to help them to develop their talents. It’s not just a good thing to do, it is a real investment in the future of music and radio.
‘At BBC Radio 3, the Orchestras and Choirs and the BBC Proms, we want to broaden and deepen the music we play, the people who play it, the audiences we play it for and the creative culture that underpins all of our work. Creativity – from people with different backgrounds, who bring different ideas through such initiatives – can help us with this. The end result will be even better content for our audiences.’
Alongside training sessions, hands-on experience, masterclasses and mentoring, successful candidates will have the opportunity to work with the BBC Concert Orchestra and BBC Proms to create a concert at the BBC Proms 2022.
Over 12 months of bespoke opportunities, participants will work a minimum of 12 paid days, including travel expenses for those outside of London.
Mary Anne Hobbs, Open Music ambassador said: ‘It’s always exciting to imagine a BBC Prom in a different way. It’s what I did with Nils Frahm and A Winged Victory For The Sullen in 2015. This time, we'll be collaborating with a diverse group of participants who will bring their own creative agenda, and form part of the whole eco-system of performers, technicians and broadcasters that come together to deliver a Prom.’
Nitin Sawhney, Open Music ambassador said: ‘I’m very excited to be involved in a programme that will bring more diversity and inclusion to radio and music, hopefully creating an unforgettable experience for all involved.’
Applications are open now and the deadline is 8 July. Anyone interested should apply here.
