Touring chance for Glasgow bands

04/06/2009

Would the next Franz Ferdinand please stand up?

Young Glasgow punks and electro boys and girls are being offered the chance to be part of a groundbreaking Scottish tour.

The Scottish Arts Council’s Youth Music Initiative is spearheading a new alternative touring circuit for up-and-coming bands and they are looking for talented teenagers to feature on their third tour in September.

“The response to the first two tours has been fantastic,” says James Dean, arts coordinator at Greater Easterhouse Arts Company.

“In Glasgow, we’re currently looking for unsigned bands in the electronica or punk genres, aged 12-19 years old, who have only performed locally and want to be part of an authentic tour.

“Previous experience doesn’t matter – we want young musicians who can rise to the challenge of touring, performing, working with industry professionals and committing to tour dates.”

The lucky bands to make the tour will have the opportunity to experience headlining and supporting slots. They will also receive training in how to promote their band and technical tuition for live performances.

Award-winning photographer Bryan Sweeney – who has shot Eminem, Sigur Ros, Jarvis Cocker and Moby – is also on board to provide the bands with professional press shots. The Banned (pictured) already took advantage of this opportunity on the first tour in May.

“The opportunity to perform live on stage, tour professional venues and gain valuable industry experience will provide invaluable life skills for participants and possibly career development opportunities. Importantly the tour will also create some great live gigs for people across Scotland to enjoy,” said Ian Smith, Scottish Arts Council’s head of music.

The second tour, which runs from June 25-27, features heavy metal bands Scordatura, State Freed and Burn The Sunset.

Bands that are interested in being part of the tour should contact James Dean at james@platform-online.co.uk or call him on 0141 276 9675.