Overview

The Build a Band workshops at The BASE are more than just music-making sessions.

They’re a transformative experience for young people, enabling them to connect, develop confidence, and build meaningful relationships with like-minded peers, all while exploring music in a structured and inspiring environment.

Led by Seonaid, the workshops bring together participants to form a supportive group through which they can explore their musical interests, find common ground, learn from each other, and push themselves out of their comfort zones.

“It’s really nice to see them get together as a group and properly build each other up and get out of there to do something out of their comfort zone, and to build their confidence and build really vibrant and happy relationships.” – Seonaid, Build a Band workshop facilitator

Workshop Impact

Initially, the young people joined the workshops as strangers, each bringing unique perspectives but lacking familiarity with each other and with collaborative music-making.

Over time, they began to bond, showing a remarkable shift in how they interact and support one another. As they learned to create music together, their confidence blossomed, and they began to take ownership of both their own and each other’s personal and professional growth and development.

“Their confidence has grown, but also their focus both inside the sessions and outside.” – Seonaid

Beyond the Workshop

This growth isn’t confined to the workshop itself.

The young people now organise their own rehearsals and practice outside of scheduled sessions, showing an impressive dedication and focus. Their involvement in the workshops has instilled a growing sense of confidence, both in their abilities and in their sense of what they have the power to achieve. They’ve gone from tentative musicians to motivated team players, keen on refining their skills and achieving shared goals.

This has been demonstrated most clearly in their public performances, with one band which was formed as a result of the members attending the workshop, performing on the main stage at Portsmouth Guildhall as part of Takedown Festival.

“I’ve seen their confidence grow, but also their focus and their drive and teamwork, just building relationships with each other, and being like: let’s do this together. That’s been really special and really cool to see.” – Seonaid

The Role of the BASE

The BASE provides a neutral, welcoming environment that feels accessible.

Equipped with quality instruments, comfortable seating, and a vibrant atmosphere, the space itself encourages creativity, making it easier for participants to feel comfortable and supported to explore their interests. The lack of fees for using the space is also a key feature, making it accessible to young people regardless of their personal circumstances.

“I think it’s really healthy for them to have somewhere different to go to that’s not a school, not someone’s garage, it’s somewhere neutral for them to come together and be creative. It’s really well equipped. It looks good, it feels good. It’s got a really good ambience to it.” – Seonaid

Key Outcomes

• Confidence Growth: young people have become visibly more self-assured in their musical abilities and in expressing themselves.
• Teamwork and Support: the group has evolved into a supportive network where each member genuinely cares for and uplifts the others.
• Drive and Dedication: young people are not only showing up to the sessions but are also taking initiative outside the workshop, demonstrating newfound dedication.
• A Sense of Belonging: the BASE has given them a neutral space away from of home and school where they feel valued and inspired.

Conclusion

The Build a Band workshops at the BASE exemplify how creative opportunities in an encouraging environment can drive real personal and social growth.

It’s more than just music; it’s about building community, resilience, and a sense of purpose for young people.

The BASE is a place where they can thrive artistically and personally, supporting them to develop skills and friendships with like-minded peers, the benefits of which extend far beyond the workshops themselves.