Music: When Will I Be Famous?
Universal Music comes to Birmingham Conservatoire in search of the next big thing
Forget X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. Birmingham’s prestigious Conservatoire is where the hunt is on for the UK’s best performers.
Birmingham singer-songwriter Laura Mvula recently shot to fame after completing a Music degree at the illustrious institution, prompting her record company, Universal, to contact tutors to seek out more potential stars.
Joe Cutler, Head of Composition, was only too happy to help them in their quest. “Song writing is a strong part of what the Conservatoire does, but a lot of our students are also involved in other things outside their formal training. This event is a great opportunity for them to show their classmates what they do, with the potential to catch the eye of a record company.”
Undergraduate Thom Bevan-Jones, was asked by his tutors to oversee the event. Although he has experience of organising more traditional concerts, there’s been extra pressure on this one, knowing that it could mean a big break for one of his friends.
“It’s been a challenge, particularly technically, trying to get six bands in one room, make a stage area for each of them, and make it work with the minimum of set-up time. I’m trying to take as much stress off the musicians as possible, help them keep their cool and concentrate on their performances. I may look calm on the outside, but I’m screaming on the inside!”
Before the concert, there’s a definite air of focussed concentration and edgy tension as the musicians set up and sound check. And not just because of the potential for getting spotted.
Johnny Race only started at the Conservatoire in September and, until now, has kept his involvement with band Echo Boomer very quiet. “This was the kick up the bum I needed to come and play to other students and staff, to show what I do. The record company will either like it or not, who knows what they’re looking for. I’m actually more nervous about the reaction from my peers.”
Pete Yelding, who graduated last year, and whose quirky performance involves two megaphones and a set of fairy lights, is suffering from self-inflicted stress. “I’m perpetually the person who digs their own grave. I’m doing a song I only wrote last night, and I can’t remember all the words, but I’m just going to go for it. I get bored if I’m not doing something new each time. It’s good stress, not bad stress.”
“I do feel a little bit sick!” says Josh Herring of mournful folk band the Steady Hands. “We’ve been gigging for over a year and have played these songs hundreds of times, but playing them here feels very exposed, but hopefully we can transcend the formality of the concert hall. It’s exciting that Universal want to come and see us, as it’s usually the other way round. I just hope we make a good impression.”
Vocalist Anushka agrees. “I’m a bit nervous because we’re performing kind of out of context. Plus I’ve had to change some of the arrangements for the songs and we haven’t had a lot of rehearsal time. But I’m just going to try and enjoy it.”
Danny Sawyer from Universal Music is the talent scout they’re all hoping to impress. Based in London, it’s his first time in Birmingham, but he’s keen to find out more about the city and its vibrant music scene.
“A lot of A&R people stick to the usual circuit of pubs and gigs, and many don’t bother to look outside London. But I think it’s good to look everywhere, because there are a lot of great musicians in all kinds of places all over the UK. I’m really interested in finding out more about what’s going on in Birmingham, and particularly at the Conservatoire. Laura (Mvula) has said so many good things about her time here.”
“In terms of what I’m looking for, I honestly couldn’t say that there’s any particular thing. I think it’s enthusiasm more than anything, that’s really important. I’m also looking for something original, something that stands out. I’m excited to see what the university has to offer.”
Michael Wolters, Assistant Head of Composition, is delighted that the students are getting this opportunity. “It’s interesting that such a large label is actively looking for new talent in an educational establishment.” he says. “In contrast to the X Factor or The Voice, where you’re either good or not good, these kinds of performers show that you can learn to develop your creative side, that it is a profession.”
Back in the concert hall, despite the inevitable nerves, the artists are philosophical about the potential for a publishing deal.
Rachel Nicholas, who graduated last year, has the dubious honour of starting the show. “I’m really glad I’m going first, so I can get it over with then relax and enjoy the other acts. It’s a chance to play to someone who hasn’t heard my music before and it would just be good to get some professional feedback.”
George, percussionist with Big Tent and the Gypsy Lantern isn’t worried. “None of us know what they’re looking for. All the acts here today are very different, but we’re all very good at what we do. We’re just going to focus on doing our own thing.”
The concert goes without a hitch, the select audience applauding enthusiastically and leaving with smiles on their faces. The performers pack away their instruments and head to the Wellington for a much-deserved pint, while Danny returns to Universal with a stack of CDs and business cards. He chats to all the artists afterwards, but is tight lipped about whether any of them have impressed him enough to be receiving that all important call.
But even if fame and fortune have not beckoned this time round, the success of local artists like Laura Mvula can only help shine a light on the wealth of musical talent coming out of Birmingham.
“What ongoing relationship we have with Universal remains to be seen,” says Joe Cutler, “but whatever happens, I’m so proud of our students and what they’ve achieved. It was well-organised and professional and they all performed brilliantly. We’ll certainly be looking to organise similar events in the future.”
Links:
Big Tent and the Gypsy Lantern
Josh Herring and the Steady Hands Rachel Nicholas
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