Picture: Aviva Stadium.
On Saturday April 16, some of Ireland’s most promising musical talent will come to the Aviva Stadium for the Irish Youth Music Awards.
The IYMAs is an educational programme for young people who wish to gain employment in the music industry, providing them with first contact work experience in a variety of subjects associated with the music business. It allows them to learn the skills necessary for this by making friends and working as part of a team.
This programme gives musicians from ages 12 to 19 the opportunity to showcase their talents. Youths are chosen to perform at a local local live selection night, with both an act and an original song chosen to represent each region. They are then mentored by members of organisations involved in the programme, including Warner Music Ireland, Hot Press, Faction Records and Music Matters.
Since it was first held in 2008, the IYMAs have grown with each passing year. Last year’s event featured over 15,000 participants originating from over 16 different regions. Jack McArdle from Team Louth was the big winner, with his team recording a full album that featured Laura Duff, winner of the Paul Clancy songwriter award.
The event is open to the public to allow them to enjoy the talents of these promising youths. But there are facilities available with which they can gain a better understanding of the art of creating music. By taking part in the workshops of the educational hub, they can learning about the various creative and music industries both in Ireland and overseas.
Tickets for the event are €20 and people of all ages are welcome. Group packages are also available, covering six people for a price of €120 and providing two youth leaders and a set lunch on the day. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.
More information can be found at the following links:
Website: http://www.iymas.ie/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irishyouthmusicawards
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/officialiymas/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/official_iymas/
By Kevin Carney
