Migrants given a chance to perform and build a future in Manchester through a new program
Band on the Wall, a legendary music venue in Manchester, has launched the Spotlight Artist Scheme to highlight the musical talents of migrants and asylum seekers. The programme, delivered in partnership with the charity CAN and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, supports ensembles, bands, or soloists who perform music inspired by their cultural heritage.
Gavin Sharp, CEO of Band on the Wall and Inner-City Music, expressed his excitement about the project's launch. "The Spotlight Artist Scheme is an exciting initiative that aims to provide a platform for migrants and asylum seekers to showcase their musical talents and feel at home in Manchester," he said.
One of the acts involved in this year's scheme is Guacamaya Latin Band, a group that blends Afro Caribbean, reggae, salsa, and Venezuelan rhythms with politically conscious lyrics. José Mesa, the lead vocalist of the band, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. The band was forced to leave Venezuela due to political repression and social upheaval in 2014.
Another artist featured in the scheme is Xaawo Kiin, one of Somalia's most celebrated female musicians. She began performing as a refugee in Ethiopia in 2008 and moved to the UK two years later. Xaawo Kiin writes and composes music deeply rooted in Somali culture, covering themes of love, loss, politics, and community.
Hamsaz Ensemble, a 15-piece group blending traditional Iranian instruments, is the final group to be involved in this year's scheme. The ensemble creates songs that champion themes such as the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement and confront the realities of forced migration.
Band on the Wall and Community Arts North West (CAN) are the organizations responsible for welcoming these groups into Manchester's live music scene. By working together, they are supporting artists to develop their musical careers, locally and globally.
The musical talents featured in the Spotlight Artist Scheme cover a variety of genres, including Latin, Somali, and Iranian music. The scheme is aimed at providing a platform for these artists to share their unique stories and contribute to Manchester's vibrant cultural landscape.
As the scheme comes to a close, Band on the Wall remains committed to supporting artists and nurturing their talents. The organisation is at the heart of supporting artists to develop their musical careers, locally and globally.
In related news, there are calls for urgent reform due to energy price hikes affecting UK households. However, the Spotlight Artist Scheme continues to provide a beacon of hope and opportunity for migrants and asylum seekers in Manchester.
Band on the Wall, a legendary music venue in Manchester, has launched the Spotlight Artist Scheme to showcase the musical talents of migrants and asylum seekers.
Credit: Image provided by Band on the Wall
