New scheme offers migrants a stage – and future – in Manchester

At a time when migrants and asylum seekers are facing political hostility, Band on the Wall is working to ensure they feel at home in Manchester.

The legendary music venue have recently launched a programmed called the Spotlight Artist Scheme, with an aim to showcasing the musical talents of people who have moved to the region.

One of the acts involved in this year’s scheme is Guacamaya Latin Band, a group which blends Afro Caribbean, reggae, salsa and Venezuelan rhythms with politically conscious lyrics.

The band is led by José Mesa – lead vocalist – who explained the opportunity meant the world to their group as they were forced to leave Venezuela in 2014 due to political repression and social upheaval.

‘We are so grateful to Band on the Wall and Community Arts North West (CAN) for welcoming us into Manchester’s vibrant live music scene. It’s an absolute honour and we believe this experience will open so many doors for us,’ José said.

Xaawo Kiin, one of Somalia’s most celebrate female musicians is also involved in the scheme. She began performing as a refugee in Ethiopia in 2008 before moving to the UK two years later. Here, she writes and composes music deeply rooted in Somali culture, covering themes of love, loss, politics and community.

And, Last but by no means least, Hamsaz Ensemble – a 15-piece group blending traditional Iranian instruments – are the final group to be involved in this year’s scheme.

The group creates songs which champion themes such as the ‘Women, Life, Freedom movement’ and confront the realities of forced migration – a subject that is unfortunately dominating today’s headlines.

Commenting on the launch on the project, Gavin Sharp, CEO of Band on the Wall and Inner-City Music, said: ‘Being able to support artists to develop their musical careers – both locally and from all over the globe – is at the heart of what we do at Band on the Wall.’

‘Our Spotlight Artists Development scheme is so exciting, and we are very lucky to work with our three brilliant artists,’ he continued. ‘We can’t wait to watch them grow, create and prosper musically.

The programme was delivered in partnership with the charity CAN and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Image: Band on the Wall.

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