2.10.2014: Emeli Sande (2 October) opened a new UK Music project in Tottenham which will give young people a safe place to make music, improve skills and boost confidence. 

Opening the new rehearsal space, Emeli said she was “thrilled” to be associated with the project. She said it was “vital” that young people had somewhere to “channel their musical creativity.”

Used by young people aged 11 – 24 years old, the project has been developed by UK Music in partnership with Beggars Group, Haringey Council and Homes for Haringey.

Sited on Eade Road in Tottenham, this is the 15^th project to open as part of the UK Music national network of rehearsal spaces and is the first London-based one.

The new facility features two rehearsal rooms and a state-of-the-art recording studio and will be free for the young people of Haringey.

Through a structured year-long educational programme at the project, young people will also have the opportunity to learn skills in music business and music production.

Emeli Sande said: “I am thrilled to be opening this space in Tottenham. This project will give young people in London somewhere to channel their musical creativity. I am so proud of the diversity of musical talent that this country produces, but having somewhere for people to go to create and rehearse is vital to ensure that this continues; this space is exactly that and will give young people a fantastic opportunity to build their musical futures.”

Haringey Council Leader Claire Kober said: “We’re proud that music industry leaders have recognised the huge potential of Haringey’s young people, who we know have the talent and determination to succeed.

“Innovative projects like this give more young people the first-class facilities, support and opportunities they need to harness their creativity and fulfill their potential.”

Jo Dipple, CEO of UK Music said; “UK Music is committed to making sure young people can develop their performance skills in a safe and affordable environment. This new project in Tottenham is a big step forward for helping young Londoners do just that.

The UK music industry contributed £3.8bn to UK GDP in 2013. To maintain our world leading advantage, investment in the next generation is a priority. This is an exciting day for the future of British music.”

Andy Heath, Chairman of UK Music and Director of Beggars Group said; “Beggars Group values young people and their creativity; they breathe life into the music industry and keep this country’s music scene fresh and exciting. At Beggars Group, the artist and their creativity are central to everything we do, and over the past couple of years we have nurtured some of the most unique acts.

“Beggars Group is home to the labels XL Recordings, 4AD, Matador Records, Young Turks and Rough Trade records. They are home to such artists as Adele, The XX, Belle and Sebastian, Jungle, Bon Iver, Warpaint, Sohn, British Sea Power, FKA Twigs, Queens of the Stone Age and SBTRKT.

We are genuinely thrilled to get the chance to give something back to the community, and to the young people in Tottenham.”