SOUNDCHECK, the music project run by the Department of Education and Children’s Youth Service, has been granted charitable status.

The move gives the popular project the chance to raise funds to extend its sessions still further and plan even more ambitious achievements.

His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, Adam Wood, hosted the launch of Soundcheck in its new format last night (Wednesday) with a reception at Government House.

His Excellency has kindly agreed to be the charity’s patron, continuing an association with the project that began last October, when he formally opened Soundcheck’s recording studio at the Youth Arts Centre in Kensington Road, Douglas.

At last night’s reception, five of Soundcheck’s acoustic acts, Callum Felmeri, Azariah, Alice Dudley, Marc McCabe O’Kelly and Emily Devereau, performed. The project’s sound and lighting team also demonstrated its skills.

Soundcheck is in its 20th year and operates in Douglas, Peel, Ramsey and Castletown, offering young people aged 11 to 19 rehearsal space, instrument use, PA equipment, advice and support.

Soundcheck performs at events Island-wide as well as hosting its own gigs at the Villa Marina and it is planning numerous events for Island of Culture 2014.

The studio allows Soundcheck acts to record their music and release CDs in their own right using the Soundcheck record label.

The project distributed copies of its new compilation CD, featuring some of its young musicians, last night.

Chairman of the new charity is Rushen MHK Laurence Skelly, secretary is DEC Youth Officer Dave Hattersley and trustees are musician Jonno Gollow, Katie King of Manx National Heritage, Chloe Woolley of Culture Vannin, Peter Young of Event Solutions, music teacher Natalie Evans and Carey Chung.
 
Photo - Soundcheck artists who performed at Government House. From left: Azariah (Sheeley), Support Youth Worker Georgia Cooper, Callum Felmeri, Marc McCabe O’Kelly, Emily Devereau and Alice Dudley.