Category: Projects

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BEHIND THE SCENES: DJ SESSIONS (FUNDED BY MAES)

What a couple weeks we’ve had! Over the past two weeks, Reform Radio has been home to our ever-growing DJ sessions programme, funded by MAES, with over twenty participants. Throughout the course, our participants have had hands-on experience behind the decks, learning how to beatmatch and blend, alongside sessions focused on self-promotion and sourcing gigs. We had DJ collective Do As You Please helping to facilitate the course, alongside some visits from GigPig and Genre Music throughout the week. To close the project, all of our incredible participants played a live set at Manchester venue The New Cross to an in-person and live-streamed audience.

We chatted to participants Jess and Jonathan to find out more about their journeys on the course and their wider plans on the DJ scene from here.

What are your names, pronouns, and current interests?

Jonathan: My name is Jonathan, I go by any pronouns, and outside the course I’m working on my career as a visual producer.

Jess: I’m Jess, my pronouns are she/her. I currently help run a comedy club in Northern Quarter. Apart from that, I love meditating and painting.

How would your friends describe you in 3 words?

Jonathan: Smiley, committed and passionate

Jess: Ambitious, laid-back and motivated

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Jonathan: ‘Love In Your Meditation’ by Dezarie

Jess: It would have to be ‘Back Out of Hell’ by Meatloaf – it was the first album I knew all the words to when I was a kid and I probably still know all the words now! Every song is such huge tune so you can solidly rely on it.

Did you have much experience in DJing before and what’s your favourite thing about it?

Jonathan: I had no experience at all. But my favourite thing about being on the course has been getting behind the decks and just doing it – you learn more and more by the minute.

Jess: I have a controller at home but it has literally never seen the light of day so I didn’t really have much experience at all. However, my favourite thing about DJing has been finally getting to grips with the decks and learning different techniques, like blending songs and figuring out which tracks work alongside one another.

What prompted you to get involved with the DJ Sessions?

Jonathan: Personally, I feel like I have a vast knowledge on music of different genres and more generally I have a massive passion for music. I play the keyboard, I love singing and dancing, so I felt like I had the potential to be a sick DJ! I also felt that by learning to DJ I would have the opportunity to promote underrepresented artists from my hometown and community.

Jess: I have wanted to DJ for a while and I’d tried to learn by watching videos online but I think I’m better learning by doing. When I saw Reform were holding an in-person DJ Course, it was the perfect opportunity to get practising in the space. I had also done a Podcasting Course here before so I knew it was a great place with great people.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed? 

Jonathan: I definitely feel more confident overall and I’ve made great progress with learning about BPM and queuing tracks. Now, I’m focusing on blending and what effects I can use in my practice.

Jess: I know how much I love DJing now – it’s so much fun! I’m still not 100% confident but I have definitely got to grips with what I’m doing in terms of blending tracks, and I feel like I have an ear for when it’s right for tracks to come in now.

Do you have any role models on the DJ or general music scene that inspire your practice?

Jonathan: An obvious one has to be KAYTRANADA, but also Kabza De Small, who is an amazing amapiano DJ.

Jess: A general big inspiration in my life is Annie Mac – I would listen to her radios shows all the time. She’s the person that got me into dance music. But, all round, I just love seeing female representation on the DJ scene, it’s inspiring.

What’s your go-to genre to DJ?

Jonathan: Amapiano. I’ve been listening to it since 2019 and the genre has expanded so much over that time so there’s so much range within it now.

Jess: Definitely dance music.

Who would your dream B2B be? 

Jonathan: KAYTRANADA, of course.

Jess: I have to go big and say Chemical Brothers.

What will you take from the DJ course moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards? 

Jonathan: So next I want to start organising playlists of different genres, and I want to apply for some opportunities with the guests we had in to start playing live.

Jess: I just want to have fun with it really – I’m hoping to keep practising at home and see where it goes. I’m not really a planner so we’ll see what happens.

If you’d like to find out about our future courses at Reform, get in touch with our lovely Projects Team on projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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BREAKING BARRIERS: AUDIO STORIES OF HOPE & RECOVERY (FUNDED BY MAES)

In case you missed it, last month we ran our very first Radio Drama course. Taking participants on a journey through soundscaping, voice acting, drama and radio, this two week project was a blast – kindly funded by MAES.

Throughout the course the group worked on creating their very own audio drama pieces that were put together into a radio show that was broadcast on the Reform Radio airwaves. Below you can take a look at the bios each of our participants created and find out more about the inspirations for the work behind this incredibly vast project.

Listen back to the full show below, or click on the segment titles to hear the specific pieces on Soundcloud.

999 – created by Zack

“Hi. My name’s Zack. I’m the writer, director & co-star of the following audio drama, ‘999’. The production process was more stressful than I’d hoped it would have been, running into multiple creative blocks & creating multiple concepts/stories before settling on using a script I’d written a few years ago.”

The content of this drama piece contains scenes that some may find disturbing & covers themes of death, family trauma, loss, traumatic experiences at work & therapy.

Reform Radio · 999 – Zack

I Am Averill – created by Max

‘I Am Averill’ follows a person who is struggling in life. You are put into Averill’s shoes and thrusted into some of the experiences Averill faces on a day to day basis.

Reform Radio · I Am Averill – Max

Secrets of a Teenage Trainwreck – created by Tyrone

Set in 1991, ‘Secrets of a Teenage Trainwreck’ is a short story about a young man named Ben Wheeler and the frustrating dynamic he has with his family. The piece is a large satirical take on late 80’s/early 90’s family sitcoms which stays faithful to the music, lingo and media of the era.

Reform Radio · Teenage Trainwreck – Tyrone

Asymmetrical Sincerity – created by Danny

This piece asks provoking questions; should we tell our closest friends the honest truth? What is sincerity and how can we balance this important quality with tact and sensitivity? 

Reform Radio · Asymmetrical Sincerity – Danny

Heartbreak – created by Mory 

Have you ever been through heartbreak? Mory explores what it means through this piece of spoken word.

Reform Radio · Heartbreak – Mory

Addiction: Sweet Miss Habit – created by Jack

Lost in a world of vice and chance, Vic is a gentleman taken in by the wicked wiles of the alluring Miss Habit. Looking to fill the void in his heart with the rush of gambling, he’s soon found that he might not be able to keep up with Habit’s harsh demands. His friends tell him to leave her and find another way to live his life, but will he be able to hold his nerve and drop Habit for good?

Reform Radio · Addiction Sweet Miss Habit – Jack

To find out more about our future projects, you can get in touch with our lovely Projects team at projects@reformradio.co.uk who can give you a hand with getting onboard.

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Projects Upcoming Projects

MUSIC INDUSTRY DAY (FUNDED BY YOUTH MUSIC)

To celebrate this year’s World Music Day in true Reform style, we’re holding a day-long free to attend session for music-lovers to come together, meet like minded creatives, and get a taste of different musical activities.

Featuring live performances from the female-identifying/non-binary HERchester collective and our Soundcamp alumni, alongside an industry discussion with Rhythm Lab Records. There will also be a wider range of taster workshops in the likes of DJing, audio recording, editing and mixing.

Our Music Industry Day, funded by Youth Music & Arts Council England, is set to take place on the 21st of June, 11-4pm. It is open to anyone aged 16+, with an interest in music.

For more info and how to get involved, check out the flyer below.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: PODCASTING COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

After two weeks of brainstorming, team work, and bringing their creative audio visions to life, our Podcasting Course (kindly funded by MAES) has drawn to a close. From the chatting about the French Revolution, to getting their children behind the mic, this project’s participants have covered a whole lot of ground through their audio journeys to put together their final collective experiential podcast, Push The Button.

Listen to the full show below.

We chatted to one of the course’s participants, Martha, about their time on the course and where they’re heading next.

Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your hobbies and interests?

I’m Martha. My pronouns are she/her and my main hobbies are running, and writing poetry and blog posts.

How would your friends describe you in 3 words?

Goofy, creative and thoughtful.

If you could only listen to one podcast for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

This is a tough question because there’s so many. I think it would probably be ‘What’s Upset You Now’. It’s two comedians just chatting about the little things that annoy them in life – it’s really silly and they make it hilarious to listen to.

What prompted you to get involved with the Podcasting Course?

So I’d just moved to Manchester and I was looking to reset. The course sounded like the perfect option to give me a new routine and I was really wanting to get into more media-related stuff so I thought this sounded like a great starting point. I was also really hoping to meet some new like-minded people.

Did you have much experience in audio/podcasting before? If so, what’s your favourite thing about it?

I had done a little bit a few years ago but it was very basic stuff and all self-taught so it’s been nice to learn everything properly and fine tune my skills. My favourite things about podcasting are definitely the presenting and talking elements.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed? 

I didn’t expect to enjoy the editing aspects as much as I have actually. Also over the time of the course, I’ve got a lot more into the routine of the days and that’s been really beneficial to me more generally with the structure of my life to be honest, from waking up and resting. I was also quite apprehensive about the course more generally, I didn’t know we would learn about equipment and editing softwares, for example, which has proven to be SO helpful.

What will you take from the Podcasting Course moving forward & what are your plans from here onwards? 

Ideally, I would really like to continue the podcasting journey I’ve started here beyond Reform, and I’d like to find more media related roles to get stuck into.

What’s your go-to podcast to listen to after a long day?

I think it would have to be ‘The Girls Bathroom’ – it’s a great gossipy podcast and I love hearing about other peoples’ problems so I know I’m not alone.

If you could have anyone on your own podcast as a guest, who would it be and why?

I think it would have to be my mum. We already have so many in-depth chats but I would love to be able to record them and refer back to them in times of need.

If you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk. 

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Projects Upcoming Projects

CV SESSIONS (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

We’re back with another one of our CV Sessions, kindly funded by Manchester City Council. Come along for an afternoon set aside for building your CV, or taking a closer look at the one you’ve already got, working through applications and cover letters, or practising interview technique. We’re here to get your confidence up, and get you prepped for your next steps.

Swing by on the 12th of June, 1PM-4PM, to meet our team and discuss any of the above. We even cover refreshments and travel too!

For more info and how to get involved, check out the flyer below.

If you’re unsure about what your next steps might be and need some support with seeking opportunities and career paths then you might want to check out our Next Steps session on the 8th of June too, where you can meet some industry pros, and careers advisors on where you want to go next.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: IN FOCUS PODCASTING (FUNDED BY ESF & SKILLS FOR GROWTH)

After seven weeks of incredible talent, creativity and teamwork, our In Focus: Podcasting course has come to a close. This programme was delivered in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority, part of Skills For Growth initiative and funded by European Social Fund. This time round we welcomed a collection of audio-enthusiasts to the space to work on production, editing, script-writing and MORE in progression towards launching their own podcasts. With a helping hand from our award-winning Audio Production Team, our participants gained hands-on experience in the likes of interview technique, publishing, and guest sourcing, not to mention brainstorming podcasting ideas altogether.

We caught up with two of our participants, Joss (he/him) and Lauren (she/her) to find out more about what they got up to and where they’re going from here.

1. Please can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What do you do? What are your interests & hobbies?

L: I am a cancer-specialist nurse, working and living in Manchester. I have two feral children, aged 6 and 2 and a half who keep me on my toes. I am also married to a nurse and between us we love travelling, seeing the world, eating good food and drinking wine (me, not the kids haha)

J: I am the Lead Carbon Consultant for Net Zero Group.

3. Why did you want to join this In Focus course?

L: So I saw the course on one of my community Whatsapp group chats and as soon as I saw it, I knew I wanted to take part. As a nurse, you come across and meet so many incredible people and there are some very funny situations you find yourself in. I think we have the ability to find light in the dark and I was really keen to do this course to share our stories of how we balance everyday life and work, and the challenges we face whilst doing so.

J: I was feeling pretty lost with my work, and I was desperate for a creative outlet, so it was perfect timing for me when I came across the advert for the course. I already have a radio show but I felt like my ideas were more appropriate for a podcast so it was the perfect opportunity.


4. What interests you about podcasting and audio in general?

L: I absolutely LOVE podcasts. I listen to them on the school run, I listen to them on the way to work and I love how accessible they are and how varied they can be.


5. What’s your favourite aspect about podcasting/audio?

L: This is probably a new-found favourite as I’d never really done podcasting before, but it’s definitely recording and editing. It’s something I never thought I’d be capable of doing but I’m loving the process and learning.


6. When and how did you realise that you wanted to be involved with podcasting/audio?

L: I don’t think I ever knew until I saw the advert for the course, but seeing that made me realise there was an idea inside me that I really wanted to create and this has been the best opportunity to do that.

J: I saw the poster for the course, it looked bright and interesting, but it also seemed like quite a comprehensive course. This really appealed to me and I realised it literally started the following week so I didn’t have time to think about it – I just went for it.


7. What have you gained from this course?

L: The list is endless. I’ve gained a new set of friends, some amazing technical skills which have allowed me to create something I love that I will hopefully share with the world soon, and I gained the confidence to do something way out of my comfort zone.

J: I’ve gained all the skills I knew I needed to podcast but I just planned to pick them up along the way, but now I have them all under my belt to go.


8. What’s your biggest aspiration for creating or working in audio/podcasting?

L: I really want to create a successful podcast about nursing. I feel like I have something quite unique to offer to the podcasting world.


9. Where do you see yourself after this is all finished?

L: Probably super busy! I have so many ideas whizzing around about what I want to create, and hopefully it will be out there soon – watch this space.

J: I already had some ideas in the mix but I’m going to use what I put together for this course as a kick-off to create the fully formed podcast now! Obviously, I’ve built some momentum now to do this alongside work but it would also be fun, now I’m part of the podcasting and audio community to explore this professionally. Also because I work in sustainability, we’re often communicating about climate change, and what others are doing and sharing messages. So there’s a lot of scope to bring audio into that line of work too.

We can’t wait to see what this pair and other participants have up their sleeves moving forward from here! Don’t forget if you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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Projects Upcoming Projects

NEXT STEPS: FOR YOUR FUTURE (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you looking for the next step in your career or creative journey? Look no further than our acclaimed Next Steps sessions, our monthly online sessions that offer valuable career advice and the chance to meet professionals in various creative fields.

The session, funded by Manchester City Council, is completely free to attend and is taking place on 8th June, 3.30PM – 5.30PM.

What’s better than free careers guidance and connecting with professionals to gain valuable insights into your future. Sign up for Next Steps today and take the first step towards realizing your creative potential.

See the flyer below for more details.

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DJ SESSIONS: BEGINNERS DJ COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

Are you ready to kickstart your DJing journey?

We’re back with a brand new beginners DJ Course in partnership with our friends, Do As You Please. From the 30th of May to the 2nd of June, and then the 5th of June to the 7th of June, you’re invited to Reform Radio to learn the likes of beatmatching, how to self-promote and source gigs.

Following the course, we’re here to help you with industry opportunities and career support too. But first, let’s get behind the decks.

The best part? All of this is FREE and travel and lunch is provided. See you there.

This course is kindly funded by Manchester Adult Education Service.

Check out the flyer below for more info and to get involved.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: MUSIC COURSE – APRIL (FUNDED BY MAES)

Last week, our April’s edition of Music Course (kindly funded by MAES) finished on a real high with a live radio show, showcasing our incredible participants’ range of talent and skills. This time round, the group channeled their collective creativity to form Space Odyssey, a show centred on their diversity as individuals and their shared love of quality tunes.

We caught up with Kathy to chat about her experience over the past two weeks at Reform, and where she’s going from here.

Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you’re up to at the moment?

Hey, I’m Kathy (she/her/they/them) and I’m currently spending most of my time working on a setting up a community radio station for a market in Birmingham. When I’m not here, that’s what you’ll find me doing!

If your friends had to describe you in three words – what do you think they’d be?

Weird – that’s definitely what comes out their mouth the most: “you’re weird” – and probably fun and kind.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

This is the hardest question ever – I like too many albums. If I had to choose an artist, it would be Nina Simone. Anything by Nina Simone moves me, so probably a greatest hits of hers.

What prompted you to get involved in the Music Course?

Funnily enough, I didn’t actually think it was a music course – I thought it was radio and production vibes. Then when I got here they said “you’re going to make a song”, but it has actually been really good to step outside of my comfort zone and push myself to share my own creative work with others, rather than facilitate others.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus today, tell me what has changed about your first impressions, your thoughts, feelings and more.

Initially I was really hesitant, I had no idea what song I wanted to make and whether I could. But this place has taught me the importance of sharing rubbish things, and stuff you might feel embarrassed about. I’ve shared some really embarrassing work in this room, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done, because it loosens you up and reminds you that it’s okay to make mistakes as it’s all part of the creative process.

What else will you be taking from the Music Course moving forward?

It’s made me want to make more, create more, share more, and honestly make more rubbish things so I can figure out what I actually want to achieve. It’s made me really appreciate my own creative process, because we’ve had free reign to embrace our own way of doing things and be non-linear with our processes.

What’s your go-to genre to listen to after a long day?

That really depends on the type of long day I’ve had. But I think it would have to be 90s entrance, to sing along to and let go of the day. Or even massive fairground tunes that you hear on rides to blast out if people have really annoyed me.

Last question, if you could meet any artist who has ever lived on this planet, who would it be and why?

Wow, that’s a massive question. Bob Marley has really taught me a lot about being a good human, but I think it would have to be Stevie Wonder – what a huge inspiration.

Listen to the full show below.

If you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk. 

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Projects Upcoming Projects

NEXT STEPS: FOR YOUR FUTURE (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you looking for the next step in your career or creative pursuits? Look no further than Next Steps, our online session that offers valuable career advice and the chance to meet professionals in various creative fields.

The session, funded by Manchester City Council, is completely free to attend and is taking place on 26th April 3.30PM – 5.30PM.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with professionals and gain valuable insights into your future career. Sign up for Next Steps today and take the first step towards realizing your creative dreams!

See the flyer below for more details.

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Projects Upcoming Projects

CV Sessions (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you on the hunt for your dream job but struggling to get past the application stage? You’re not alone! In today’s competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to make sure your CV and cover letter stand out from the crowd. That’s where our free CV Sessions come in.

Funded by Manchester City Council, this one-day session is designed to help you perfect your CV, application forms, and cover letters. You’ll learn how to showcase your skills and experience in a way that catches the eye of potential employers. Plus, we’ll work on interview skills and improving your confidence, so you’re ready to impress when it comes to the big day.

Not only will you walk away with a killer CV and improved interview skills, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build your professional network. And did we mention it’s completely free to attend?

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for our CV Sessions course today and take the first step towards landing your dream job!

The next session will take place on Monday 3rd April from 1PM – 4PM at Reform Radio.

See the flyer below for further details.

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Behind The Scenes: In Focus Radio (Funded by ESF & Skills For Growth)

Our In Focus: Radio recently wrapped up in late February. During this course, participants learned about audio production, presenting, music sequencing, research and interview skills, recording, editing & sound design, industry advice and knowledge on BBC systems. 

We caught up with Nadya, one of the participants on the course to see how they got on.

Please introduce yourself/name/pronouns?

My name is Nadya Vella, my pronouns are she/her. 

Please can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What are your interests? What are your hobbies?

I’m a Canadian DJ based in Manchester. My hobbies obviously include music and fashion too. Yeah, to be honest, outside of my day job I am working on lots of different things to do with music and otherwise I am a simple girl. 

What interests you about radio and audio in general?

Well, something that interests me about it is that on a global scale you are connecting to people and things you know very little about, but can enjoy at the same time. I love the elements of music, which also feels universal as you don’t necessarily need to speak the same language to understand. I enjoy the intricacies of radio, you may have one person talking but a whole team of people are there producing it. So with this course, it was really nice to kind of see that unfold for me and grasp all the different elements involved. 

What’s your favourite aspect about radio/audio? 

Yeah, I guess it’s that idea of connection and of course the platforms. I think with the kind of radio stations like Reform, for me, and even like the BBC, I do really love that aspect of freedom and self-expression that you can have with showcasing things that touch you, or you think is fire. It’s really nice to be able to just put yourself out there in a way that is safe and you are able to share things that are important to you. 

When and how did you realise that you wanted to be involved with radio/audio?

When I was Year 8, in school in Canada we had optional classes. I took TV & Radio, because I thought it sounded easy and interesting. It focused on video editing, how to run a radio show and about its structures. It was a light overview of a full production. Me and my friends then kickstarted our junior high radio show. So its all kind of continued on since then. I got deeper into my craft with age and time, especially my DJing and as I put more time into it, radio became an obvious route.

What have you gained from this course? 

What systems the BBC use, how things are correlated between people working and making sure they get paid for tracks and audio. I enjoyed learning about the Reaper software. I noticed that having a relationship with your producer can really elevate your radio shows.

What’s your biggest aspiration for creating or working in audio/radio?

I would love to do a BBC 1 Residency and I know there have been Canadians that have done it, but I’d love to show up for East Africa as well and to be a representative on a platform like the BBC would be amazing. 

Where do you see yourself after this is all finished?

On a beach! Also I do hope my radio show becomes tighter, maybe with new connections I have made through this course, new opportunities may arise and I am hopeful that they will. I would like to collaborate with these same like minded individuals to push ourselves to the forefront of what a good radio show looks like.

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Music Course (FUNDED BY MAES)

Are you a music lover looking to take your creativity to the next level? Do you have a passion for radio production, social media, and creative writing? Well, have we got the workshop for you!

Introducing the Music Course – a two-week program focused on music production and creating your own radio show to showcase your original creations. Funded by the amazing Manchester Adult Education Service, this project runs from April 10th to April 21st, with a taster day on April 5th.

Get ready to rock your socks off as you learn all the ins and outs of music production and show off your talents to the world through your very own radio show. This is a great opportunity to hone your skills, unleash your creativity, and take your love for music to new heights.

Drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk to get involved in this project. Check out the flyer below for more details – we can’t wait to see you there!

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Creative Leadership (FUNDED BY MAES)

Do you dream of being your own boss and running a successful business? If so, you’ll want to take advantage of our upcoming 4-day course dedicated to all things freelancing!

Creative Leadership is a comprehensive course that will teach you everything you need to know about facilitation, funding, taxes, and what it takes to be a freelancer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this course will give you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.

Learn how to understand your audience, navigate self-employment, and manage your taxes. You’ll also gain invaluable skills in facilitating workshops, delivering socially engaged projects, writing funding bids, working with partners, planning sessions, and evaluating success.

The course will be held on March 30th, 31st and 6th, 14th April from 10AM to 4PM, so mark your calendars and get ready to learn from the best in the business.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your freelancing game to the next level. Check out the flyer below for all the details on how to get involved, or drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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Behind The Scenes – In Focus: Content & Social Media (Funded by ESF & Skills For Growth)

We are Toju, Mike and Nat – participants of the latest In Focus: Content and Social Media course which just finished and we are thrilled to share some exciting insights with you! We worked on a creative brief to produce a social media strategy for a local clothing designer, Rhea Barry, who has just released her new collection.

About the Course 

The In Focus: Content and Social Media was a comprehensive 7-week course designed to help individuals gain practical experience in digital content creation. Delivered by Reform Radio’s experienced Content & Marketing Team and industry experts, this programme was amazing at helping us develop our skills in marketing, video, and photography.

The course consisted of structured modules, covering topics such as social media and marketing strategies, analytics, trends, and audience development, planning and implementing a social media marketing campaign, and working from briefs to developing concepts. We also learnt the basics of filming and concept production, including creating short-form videos for different platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and editing and post-production.

The course was funded by the Skills for Growth & European Social Fund.

Our Group worked on a project for a local fashion designer as a part of the programme.

In Focus Participants Toju, Mike and Nat

Rhea B is a clothing designer and seamstress based in Cheetham Hill, Manchester. She is the one woman show behind ‘RB Funky Creations’; clothing company boasting one-of-a-kind and small-batch pieces all designed, cut, sewn and packaged by Rhea herself.

Rhea

Known for her signature ‘woodland fairy’ aesthetic, as well as her use of creative up-cycling, Rhea’s online platform has garnered an impressive following on social media platforms.

Rhea B champions the philosophy of ‘Slow Fashion’ and wastes absolutely zero fabric. She sources materials from end of line fabrics, charity shop items and eBay deadstock as well as some locally sourced new fabrics.

To mark the drop of her new collection, Reform Radio were lucky enough to host Rhea B at the station to meet her, shoot some of her clothing, and ask her some questions about her process.

Rhea handmakes new collections with drops every couple of months. They are all one of a kind or small batch pieces ranging in sizes Xs-3XL. Rhea works from her Manchester studio and designs, cuts, sews, packages and posts everything herself. She uses a mix of new fabrics, end of line and recycles old clothes to create her designs, so everything is unique. 

Purple Pixi Drop is a mix of tops, skirts and accessories. Running theme of the collection is a focus on trimmings, lace up detail and beaded fringing. Merging the colour purple with all the shades and textures that are made when Rhea combines lace, mesh velvet and stretch jerseys (always focused on comfort as well!). Rhea also saves all the scraps from cutting out the designs and uses these to create her patchwork gloves and panels so nothing is wasted. 

Images from the shoot

If you want to get involved in the next In Focus: Content & Social Media course, drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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Arts Council blog Funders House Of Wingz MAES More Music RiteTrax

IWD at Reform Radio

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. At Reform Radio, we’re proud to join the millions of people around the world who are marking this important day by highlighting the achievements of women, both past and present, and showcasing the incredible work that women are doing in our community and beyond. From creative workshops and events to inspiring stories and interviews, here’s a look at some of the ways we’re celebrating IWD this year.

Get involved in our free up and coming creative workshops. For any questions or to register, drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

Positive Frequencies (6th – 10th March)

HERchester UP NORTH (Various Locations March – May)

Radio Gaga (Mondays for 8 weeks)

Listen to our most recent Made The Same Way podcast, A collaborative project between Reform Radio and the Wellcome funded ‘Human Developmental Biology Initiative’ (HDBI), each episode introduces one emerging artist and one knowledgeable researcher to discuss science, life, and music. The series are hosted by Manchester rapper Oneda, bringing together scientists and emerging female rappers.

Do As You Please Open Decks Event at Joshua Brooks

Our very own DJ Sessions delivery partner is hosting an open deck and open mic event in the infamous Joshua Brooks, it’s free entry, so there are no excuses not to come.

Rewind to Reform’s Women/Non-Binary Resident Shows


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Manchester City Council Projects Upcoming Projects

NEXT STEPS: FOR YOUR FUTURE (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

A monthly session based on opportunities for the future. The session includes 1-1s, both CV and cover letter support, and invites several speakers to discuss various opportunities available.

The next online session will take place on Thursday 9th March – from 15:30 – 17:30.

Next Steps has been made possible by Manchester City Council.

See the flyer below for further details.

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MAES Upcoming Projects

RADIO COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

Ever wanted to learn the production side of radio? Or have the chance to test your hosting skills live on air?

Our two week fully funded Radio Course is returning on Monday 13th March, with a taster session taking place on Thursday 9th March from 12:30PM – 2:30PM.

See flyer below for more details & how to get involved.

Radio Course has been made possible by MAES.

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blog Featured Projects MAES Projects

BEHIND THE SCENES: MUSIC COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

The latest Music Course finished with an absolute bang, wrapping up with a live radio show showcasing every participants’ production. This group definitely brought versatility and energy, with genres spanning from heartfelt indie rock to euphoric downtempo afrobeat.

We sat down with Peter to get glimpse into his experience for the past 2 weeks!

Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Peter, and I’ve been part of a music course at Reform Radio where they help you become an artist and develop your sense of art.

Who inspires you as an artist?

Who inspires me the most? I would probably say an African artist named Davido. They create African type Afrobeat music. I grew up listening to that type of music a lot, so take a lot inspiration from that.

What are you favourite genres?

Hip-hop, Afrobeat and … maybe classical? I listen to a lot of orchestral music from movie soundtracks.

What was your knowledge on music production before the course?

I would say I had a decent knowledge because I had previous experience in producing music. So it’s not like I had no sort of clue what I was doing. Obviously you always need help in certain things, but the basics I had.

Why did you decide to join the course?

I’ve always had an interest in music. It was more of a hobby and I didn’t know whether to take it seriously. So I was like, ‘Let’s try this out.’ And if it goes well, who knows? Who knows what might happen after.

I also joined for the environment and to develop my sense of style, because back when I used to make music, I just created whatever seemed good in the moment. I wasn’t focusing what might be unique to me.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus now, tell me a bit about your first impressions/feelings/emotions in comparison to how you feel now. What has changed?

The first day was exciting. You’re looking forward to the challenge in a way. People are really welcoming, they care about how people are feeling. And two weeks on, with the show coming up, I felt a different kind of excitement. You’ve put in the work and waiting to see whether the hard work has payed off.

Finally, what was the most memorable moment from the course?

We played a warm up game called Empire where you have to build your own empire. I won and I’m still the Emperor to this day…!

You can listen to the full project show below!

If you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk. 

Categories
MAES Projects Upcoming Projects

COMEDY COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

It’s time to kickstart your comedy career with our first ever comedy course!

Starting on Monday 20th February, this fully funded 1 week course will give you the chance to learn with like-minded artists, and get to grips with the industry through work experience in the following week.

Comedy Course has been made possible by MAES.

See the flyer below for further details.