Music / the trinity centre
Bristol’s first free-to-use music studio opens
A newly-opened music studio in the heart of Bristol hopes to be “a breeding ground” of creativity at a time when the pandemic has reduced monetary support for grassroots music.
First Light Studio at the Trinity Centre is a free-to-use studio started by Batu, owner of Timedance record label and renowned DJ.
The studio, which will also see music producers host workshops, was funded with support from Dr Martens, who helped to build the studio, equip it with professional kit and is covering the studio’s rent.
is needed now More than ever
“So many people have helped me along the way and I’ve received a huge amount of support from the community around me,” says Batu, who has DJed at festivals including Glastonbury and Dekmantel.
“Privately renting a studio is an expense that is prohibitive for a lot of up and coming artists, and there should be more access for free.
“I’m really proud to bring First Light Studio to life with the support of Dr Martens, and help give Bristol’s talented network of up and coming artists the support they need.”
Batu in the new studio. Photo: Kingdom Collective
The new community hub is designed to provide a valuable stepping stone into the music industry by allowing producers to create, refine and experiment with the kit available.
Free sessions in the studio will be available to musicians and collectives of all genres who don’t have access to a studio of their own.
To mark First Light Studio’s launch, four much-loved Bristol names will host workshops.
Hodge, who has more than 12,000 likes on Facebook, will lead a workshop on production and Elder Island will guide a session on pedal-effects.
Elder Island will host a session at the studio. Photo: Covered Press
Mix Nights, a female collective including Em Williams and Daisy Moon, are lined up to host a First Light Studio edition of their recognised DJ workshops and Sir Hiss will lead a session for aspiring grime DJs, producers and MCs, breaking down the creative process of making a track.
Musicians and producers who are over 16 or older, can navigate a studio and have their own laptop can apply to spend time at the studio now.
Main photo: Kingdom Collective
Read more: New Songs For Bristol to be released
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