Cardiff celebrates musical youth

Cardiff’s budding rock stars of tomorrow will be strumming and crooning their way through a special gig at The Globe this Thursday September 10. Following a successful competition at the same venue earlier this year, pupils from the city’s schools will take to the stage for a night of under 18s music.

Named after The Who classic 'The Kids are Alright', the evening will showcase the best of Cardiff’s younger generation. Students from Michaelston Community College, who won July’s contest at the Globe, will be among those taking centre stage. Pupils from Mary Immaculate and Cathays High Schools are also taking part, with special guests the Chloe Cooke Band.

The students have been working closely with Cardiff Council’s Music Development Team, which is hosting Thursday’s event along with the Globe music venue, which is keen to support the young musicians.

Executive Member for Education and Lifelong Learning, Cllr Freda Salway, said: “Music is an important part of education and provides something different from normal classroom activities. Not only does is it give our students a social outlet, it also allows them to be original and creative. To have the chance to play at a venue like The Globe is another great opportunity and I wish everyone the best of luck for what I’m sure will be a fantastic evening’s entertainment.”

Emma Coulthard, Music Development Officer, said: “I am really proud of what our young people are achieving musically and I am delighted our partnership with The Globe continues to be a great success. This gives our bands the opportunity to play in a top class venue with industry standard equipment.”

Allen Jones, a former member of ‘60s Welsh band Amen Corner, runs the Globe. He said: “The state of the record industry at the moment and a lack of modern studios out there can make it really hard for young new bands to get a chance at success. With The Globe we have a fully equipped entertainment venue for all ages that can really help the music industry grow in Cardiff. I am very excited about giving the city’s youngsters this opportunity and I look forward to continuing to develop this scheme with Cardiff Council.”

Doors open at 7:30pm on Albany Road in Roath and all are welcome. Tickets can be purchased on the night for £4.