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Local talent to headline youth-managed gig at The Baths

Tune Up's latest cohort of young event managers will bring four rising stars to The Baths stage for Independent Venue Week.

Why it matters: Tune Up is a programme run by Brighten the Corners to train 16-25 year olds in live music event management, while also supporting the region's emerging talent.

The details: The Tune Up team has handled all aspects of event planning, from artist selection to technical requirements.

  • The showcase will feature performances from Sophie the Great, Arthur Black, Headcheck and Helix

  • The 300-capacity venue will host the event as part of Independent Venue Week

  • Tickets are available for £7 via DICE

The Tune Up team
The Tune Up team(Brighten the Corners)
The Tune Up team
The Tune Up team(Brighten the Corners)

Behind the scenes: Faye Sage, a Tune Up participant, said: "With Tune Up it's given me a really great opportunity to take a deep dive behind the scenes of creating an event, I have been taking on roles outside of my comfort zone to learn a range of new skills."

The artists' view: "Being given platforms such as the ones provided by Brighten The Corners and Tune Up are so important to independent artists like us," said Helix, one of the performing bands. "We know first hand how important Tune Up is to young people with our social media platforms being managed by Ella who took part in a Tune Up course in 2023."

How it works: The programme runs as a 10-week course, with industry professionals sharing expertise across different sectors. This showcase represents the work of the sixth cohort, while the seventh term has already begun.

Helix performing at The Smokehouse in Ipswich
Helix performing at The Smokehouse in Ipswich(Brighten the Corners)

What they're saying: "We're really excited to be back with a new Tune Up gig, this time spotlighting local artists who we've been following for a while," said Tune Up Coordinator Caitlin Whittaker. "The group has worked really hard in promoting and producing the show."

What's next: The next term has just begun and will conclude in April before the following cohort will work towards operating the Cornhill stage at Brighten The Corners Festival in June.

The bottom line: The showcase represents both an opportunity for young people to gain practical experience in event management and a platform for local artists to perform at a major venue.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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