Music heavyweights lend support to young Irish musicians

A record turnout of young musicians is expected from Ireland, North and South, with up to 26 acts taking to the Liberty Hall stage amid a flurry of workshops, CD reviews, and exhibitions. The showcase finals are the culmination of up to 60 local events involving about 240 acts, and the organisers expect 1,000 young fans to attend.

The shifting of the IYMAs up a gear for 2010 follows the success in 2009 of the chart-topping compilation album Pesky Kidsfeaturing a selection of the top acts from last year’s project. The IYMAs embraces young musicians from all over the country between the ages of 12 and 19.
Prominent music industry figures have been quick to voice their support for the ethos of the IYMAs, with many lending their experience directly to the project. Jackie Hayden (Hot Press), Willie Kavanagh (Managing Director EMI Ireland), Stuart Clark (Assistant Editor, Hot Press) Will Ryan (Manager, Oliver Cole and Travega), Aileen Galvin (Entertainment Architects), Liza Geddes (Friction PR), Liam McCormack (RTE TV) and Alan Hennessey (Crashed Records) are among those who will be actively involved on April 24.

Prominent Youth Action and Support Groups have also voiced their support of The IYMAs, including Youth Work Ireland (commissioners), City of Dublin Youth Services Board, Youth Action Northern Ireland, and many independent smaller bodies.

“The IYMAs are the fastest growing contemporary music event in Ireland and this year promises further growth with a new venue which will allow for new activities such as workshops and improved mentoring for all the young people involved. We are also confident of having some surprise guests who will perform on the day and provide great entertainment for all who attend. Thousands of young people now have the opportunity to get access to the music industry and associated skills through this process and we hope to develop the awards further in 2010” Dermot Lambert / Director / The Irish Youth Music Awards told Hot Press.

“Unfortunately the Ireland of today is providing fewer opportunities for young people in terms of education and employment. Emigration and economic malaise are back on the agenda. This project however shows the tremendous resource that young people can be. It demonstrates that given half a chance young people can come together and create something special. Not everyone can be the next U2 or The Script but first and foremost the Awards build teamwork and solidarity amongst the participants as well as connecting them to some vital networks and career options such as the music industry, PR, sound engineering and much more” Michael McLoughlin / Youth Work Ireland.
Tickets for the Liberty hall event are limited, and are available through Youth Work Ireland offices Nationwide.

The Irish Youth Music Awards are run by Youth Work Ireland and Garageland.ie in association with City of Dublin Youth Service Board and Youth Action Northern Ireland.
For further information see www.irishyouthmusicawards.ie