May: Parallel residence II: UK program

11:00 - 18:00

Saffron’s ‘Mix Nights’ mentors will present an introduction to DJing in a fun, informal workshop style environment., Mentors will cover the technical basics of DJing and share their knowledge and experience on the more lateral aspects, such as finding ‘your sound’ and crafting a set.

Saffron’s ‘Mix Nights’, is a teaching series, working with women to develop DJ skills in an encouraging, safe and welcoming environment. Mentors cover the basics of mixing on vinyl and CDJs (digital), with each course culminating in a group of students playing their first public DJ set. Mix Nights’ DJ mentors include the very best of Bristol’s female DJs; Em Williams (Simple Productions) and Daisy Moon (Housework, BRSTL). Working behind the scenes as Mix Nights Project Manager and fellow DJ, is Lizzy Ellis (Saffron, Red Light Management, Tectonic Records).

Classes are designed for beginners, or those with basic skills who would like further support and guidance. 

As the workshops will be held in English, English speaking-applicants will be prioritised although an interpreter can be available if necessary 

If you would like to participate in a session with Saffron Records, please submit your CV and cover letter (300-500 words) by May 15. In your cover letter, please mention why you would like to be a DJ, list 10 tracks you would pick to play at a Parallel party, and give mention to 3 well-known DJs in the industry. Please note that successful applicants must cover travel and accommodation costs themselves.

About Saffron Records

Comprising a record label, teaching series, masterclasses and an artist development platform, Saffron aims to support Women in music and technology through education, personal growth and community building. Women currently make up just 5% of the music tech industry. This problem is reflected in recording studios, mixing desks, stages and line ups around the world. This creates an intimidating and often hostile environment making it difficult for women to feel like they can engage within these industries. We feel that the short term solution is to create safe, single sex environments for women which encourage confidence, creativity and curiosity. 

11.00 – 18.00

This session from Brighter Sound will focus on songwriting and production skills.

The session will cover key songwriting themes: where to start, how to structure songs and how to bring those ideas to life. Mentors will provide tips on inspiration, production techniques, melodies, harmonies, lyric-writing and how to get the most out of Ableton software.

Poppy Roberts – vocalist, composer and producer who has worked across pop, electronic and urban genres with labels such as Apollo R&S, Fulfill Records and Scissor & Thread. She has written and performed with a number of artists and publishing houses (Durutti Column, Maceo Plex, Indigo...) prior to releasing her debut solo EP later this year.

About Brighter Sound

Brighter Sound is a creative music charity based in Manchester, UK. Rooted in the North of England with both national and international reach, the organisation supports young and emerging musicians  from their early years to their early careers. A driving force for gender equality, Brighter Sound curated ‘Both Sides Now’, a three year programme to support, inspire and showcase women in music. The programme features residencies, commissions, training and apprenticeships, alongside national and international showcases.  Both Sides Now is creating lasting change around the roles, representation and recognition of women in music – from the classroom to the stage.

24 May 2019
23.00 – 04.00

Parallel Party is a series of music events providing a platform for local female DJs and musicians to showcase their music.

This edition of the Parallel Party will feature a DJ set from British producer FEMME, supported by local acts (to be announced).

About FEMME

FEMME has been described as a ‘one-woman powerhouse’ by BBC Radio 1's Annie Mac. FEMME (Laura Bettinson) is the real deal when it comes to unadulterated artistry. As composer, producer, vocalist and DJ, she has eschewed major label interest in order to maintain her musical vision without interference. She has collaborated with the great and the good, including touringthe USA with Charli XCXand featuring on tracks with  Sasha, Justin Martin, Four Tet and David Lynch. FEMME is also vocalist in the band Ultraísta, with Radiohead producer Nigel Godrich.