Introducing Forté Project

Forté Project is a unique artist development scheme, which has successfully helped to uncover, capture and support exciting new music emerging from South Wales. In 2015, we identified the gap in the provision of artist development into the music industry in Wales and have since been able to build a new development model that helps to bridge gap in provision for young artists.

Forté Project has successfully engaged with young people (16-25) in disenfranchised areas, many of whom have never experienced a way of accessing the music industry in Wales, the Forté Project becomes a new gateway for that young talent. Creating these pathways is key to equality of access to the overall music industry development which has been developed by the longstanding SONIG programme (in RCTCBC) and five neighbouring local authorities (ArtsConnect). The project supports young people to reach their potential, through developing confidence, self-esteem and raising their aspirations.

Forté Project runs for twelve month period and offers the following:
• Monthly mentoring sessions with music industry mentors 
• Bespoke monthly industry master-classes with industry professionals
• Unique live opportunities
• Audience development strategy
• Rehearsal support
• Recording support
• Marketing materials and training

• A series of personal development sessions. Aimed at building confidence, self-esteem and boosting creative flow.

Forté Project is funded annually by Arts Connect, Arts Council of Wales and PRS Foundation.

Introducing Young Promoters Network

Young Promoters Network (YPN) was formed in 2010 and is part of the SONIG Youth Music Industry programme, delivered by Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council. 

The current network consists of young people, residing in RCT, who are aged between 14-25, with the ambition to create live music events and in the process, promote young emerging acts.

The aims of YPN are to:

· Empower young people in RCT, by providing them with a new skill-set; building confidence

· Increase the opportunities within the live music sector for young people

· Help participants learn what it will take to forge careers within this field of the Creative Industries from a hands-on approach.

· Generate bespoke workshops;

· Host industry-related seminars

· Create networking opportunities

· Identify platforms for emerging talent

· Identify career pathways and progression routes

· Provide opportunities to perform at our shows

Young Promoters Network is delivered by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, through funding received from the Welsh Government’s Families First programme.