BMG Production Music (BMGPM) has partnered with educational organization Expand Music. The collaboration will see BMGPM provide work and development opportunities for “Expand Access” participants aged 16 to 19 from underrepresented backgrounds as part of its access-to-industry initiative. Expand Music is a London-based organization facilitating interactive music workshops and coaching for schools and businesses in the U.K. The initial aim of the collaboration is to offer new and emerging talent in the Expand Music network the opportunity to get their music onto the BMGPM catalog.
The “Expand Access” project links young artists from diverse and often economically disadvantaged backgrounds with tangible means to earn money from their art via professional relationships in which they are treated with respect and paid fairly. It also celebrates the significant contribution that young musicians and creators make to the rich cultural tapestry of the UK.
Two albums were released last month as part of the Expand Music partnership. Named after the artists, Chiles and OT showcase talents influenced by grime and neo-soul, respectively.
From the Expand Music roster, Chiles signed to its Rawfire label with numerous releases and placements, wrote a bespoke track for the pilot show of BBC Three’s Fight Dirty, gained professional work experience at a leading production music label, mentors at Progression Sessions and has created an album of production music. Another successful Expand Music network graduate is Hindoloh. Now a talent manager and producer of music and videos, including “No Hook” by Zone 2 that has 1.5 million views on YouTube, he also mentors on Progression Sessions projects and is employed at BSix College as a music technician and workshop teacher.
