Young music promoters offered support to stage gigs

Funeral for a Friend have helped put the south Wales valleys on the music map

Music fans in the south Wales valleys are being urged to take the plunge into gig promotion.

The Young Promoters Network is being launched on Friday with a free event at the Muni in Pontypridd.

It will offer professional support, training, networking opportunities and first-hand experiences.

Organisers from Rhondda Cynon Taf council's youth music service SONIG hope to identify youngsters with a flair for promotion.

The event is open to young people aged 14 to 25, including bands and solo performers looking for ways to promote themselves through live gigs.

Promoters Greg Barton and Spike Griffiths will provide first-hand experiences of staging gigs while council staff will share their knowledge of licensing and technical issues.

Event organiser Simon Griffiths from SONIG says the council is keen to support enthusiastic young music fans who may lack the experience and confidence to stage their own gigs.

"I put on shows when I was younger - you don't understand the legalities about things like fire exits, anti social behaviour and loud music," he said.

Ponty's Big Weekend has provided a showcase for local talent such as sister duo Electrovamp

"Sometimes it seems overwhelming and daunting - we're trying to overcome these aspects and help support young promoters."

Mr Griffiths said SONIG could also provide the necessary PA equipment and venues.

The initiative also potentially gives people the opportunity to work on major live music events such as Ponty's Big Weekend and bands including Lostprophets and Funeral for a Friend.

Coun Robert Bevan, cabinet member for culture, recreation and tourism, said: "There is a thriving music scene in Rhondda Cynon Taf and this great free event will give young people the information and contacts they need to successfully stage and promote concerts."

The Young Promoters Network will be held on Friday 25 February 2011 at the Muni Arts Centre, Pontypridd, from 1100 to 1500 GMT - call 01443 490258 for details.