On Thursday 30th April Dv8 Bexhill opened its doors for the first of a new season of taster sessions. Being a specialist music college we thought giving young people the chance to explore their ideas and creativity in a fun and informal environment was a better way to meet us than an open day. The sessions are based around an engaging music activity run by our tutors, supported by some of our Level 3 students. Participants have the opportunity to create something in a short amount of time, exploring various pieces of equipment and the Logic music software, as well as exploring the space and meeting the staff.

After being led to our legendary sofas (of the ‘Sofa Sessions’ fame) participants were met be Centre Manager Leo who gave them the low down on what to expect at Dv8 Sussex. Before long the group was fully immersed in a world of musical mystery as tutors Frank and Bev played a range of noises and asked them to try and work out what they were hearing. Bev’s ‘Suitcase of Sound’ (pictured above) then made its way onto the table and soon hi-hats, snares and cymbals were being created from unexpected sources. Beats were built into bars as Bev and Frank demonstrated  how to use a knowledge of timing to create really interesting rhythms, and soon after, with the able assistance of a projector, the group was being shown how the music software Logic can be used to capture and refine their music.

Now came the turn of our Level 3 students, turned trainee tutors, Cai and Marcus, to bring a bit of hip hop flair and word play to proceedings. Taking the group’s suggestions for words to work into rhymes they artfully freestyled over various grooves and showed how performing can boost your confidence and understanding of music. All done with humour and a smile it was the perfect way to end this whirlwind tour of the unique learning environment we can offer an Dv8 Sussex.

We have another taster session on Friday 24th June 11am – 12.30pm  so it’s not too late to take part if you are interested. Sessions are open to 15 – 18 year olds interested in studying with us next year and spaces are limited to 12 people. If you’d like to take part or know someone who would please contact Jo on 01424 213890 or email jo.israel@dv8sussex.com