The programme has grown out of CoMusica, the North East Youth Music Action Zone. Trainees and apprentices can choose work placements from right across the whole Learning and Participation Programme. European Social Fund investment, through the Cultural Sector Development Initiative, has been key in the establishment of the trainee and apprenticeship programme. We are running a six month part-time traineeship with one intake a year. Intakes are recruited in January for a March start. Trainees receive one to one mentoring, and participate in group training in specific areas such as child protection, leadership, musicianship and group work. Trainees have access to a wealth of opportunities to develop practical work alongside our experienced music leaders. The apprenticeship is a nine month, part-time opportunity for trainees wanting to further develop skills towards a career as a music practitioner. Apprentices receive one to one mentoring, participate in group training, initiate and lead community music projects and work as supporting musicians in a wide range of settings.

Studentship

The programme includes a Studentship which facilitates music leadership training for 14-19 year olds. Young people who have participated in CoMusica projects who are interested in finding out what it means to be a music leader are offered the opportunity to explore music leadership in a supported environment, guided by experienced project leaders.

Introduction to Community Music

A twelve week course in community music aimed to prepare musicians who wish to apply for The Sage Gateshead Community Music Traineeship and for those interested in developing an understanding of the scope, history and methodology of community music. The course facilitates new leadership skills through a programme of hands-on workshops.