The Tea Dances
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Meet Award Winner Stanley Saugweme, who along with Pawnell Kimani runs Urban Fresh, a music project that offers the chance to some of Coventry’s young people to develop their musical talents and learn new skills.
Urban Fresh’s members meet once a week and attend monthly professional studio sessions, mentored by Stanley and Pawnell, aged 19, who will also offer ongoing support to participants.
“Creating music was something that always interested me so I thought I’d give it a go,” says Stanley of his own introduction to music making at age 16 at Wood End Youth Centre, known locally as ‘The Venny’.
Urban Fresh's KayB
Stanley, who uses the recording name ICEYStanley, readily recognises that his growing passion for music making helped keep him out of trouble. “Without it I wouldn’t be where I am now,” says the Birmingham University computer sciences student.
“Stanley has been lucky to find himself through music and to engage in positive activities as a result,” says Eva, his Live UnLtd Development Manager. “His project allows him to pass on his skills and educate and motivate other young people.”
Urban Fresh's co-founder Pawnell
Eva helped Stanley to plan and structure the project, while the funding allowed them to buy the equipment they needed.
“The aim was to get people into doing music at a high standard,” says Stanley. “Everything works better when you’re a team. You can’t do it on your own.” That high standard is evident in the video below, which features 16-year-olds Josh and Rochelle.
The music collective are always on the lookout for more members. “Rochelle and I did a gig yesterday, actually,” says Stanley. “It was really good. When you tell people that you want them to get involved but don’t show them what you can offer them they’re probably not going to be interested. So the gig’s like a showcase and then after we talk to people.” They found two more possible members as a result.
With plans to continue the project, develop the website, write more music, and work with more people, be sure to check out Urban Fresh Music Group’s website – and remember where you first heard of these talented musicians.
Visit Urban Fresh Music Group’s website.
To take on a project like Stanley’s, click here to get started.
