Sheffield Music Hub Launches New Rock and Pop Pathway for Young Musicians

Young musicians across Sheffield now have more opportunities than ever to develop their skills, form bands and perform live thanks to Sheffield Music Hub's new Rock and Pop Pathway.

The pathway has been designed to support young people at every stage of their musical journey, from learning how to play in a band for the first time through to developing as experienced performers.

Based at Red Tape Central, the pathway consists of three groups: Band Skills, Band Factory, and The Next Big Thing.

Building Confidence Through Band Skills

The first step on the pathway is Band Skills, aimed at young musicians in Years 7 to 13 who have already started learning their instrument and want to experience playing in a band.

Led by experienced musicians and tutors Emma Smith, Tariq Megrisi and Logan MacDonald, the weekly sessions help singers, guitarists, bassists, drummers and keyboard players develop the skills needed to perform with others. Young people learn how to rehearse as a group, build confidence, understand their role within a band and develop technical knowledge of rehearsal spaces and equipment.

The course is structured to help young musicians progress and prepare for the next stage of their journey.

Taking Music Further with Band Factory

Once students have gained experience playing with others, they can progress to Band Factory.

This group focuses on developing musicians as active band members, giving them the opportunity to explore different musical styles, learn new songs and collaborate creatively with their peers.

Young people work together in dedicated band spaces, often selecting their own material and helping shape the direction of their groups. Supported by tutors Emma Smith, Tariq Megrisi, Logan MacDonald and Conor Morton, students gain valuable experience of rehearsing, performing and working independently.

Band Factory members also benefit from regular live performance opportunities across the city.

Recent performances have taken place at venues including Crookes Social Club, Sidney & Matilda, the Octagon Centre, Sheffield United FC's Fan Zone and World Snooker Championship celebrations outside the Crucible Theatre.

Developing Sheffield's Next Generation of Artists

For young musicians already performing regularly, the final stage of the pathway is The Next Big Thing.

This advanced programme supports established bands to refine their sound, strengthen their stage presence and prepare for larger performance opportunities.

The group offers specialist support in areas including songwriting, recording, technical rehearsals, stage planning and band identity. Young people also benefit from industry-led workshops and mentoring from experienced music professionals.

The programme aims to help young musicians develop the skills, confidence and professionalism needed to take the next steps in their musical careers.

Open to Young Musicians Across Sheffield

The Rock and Pop Pathway is open to young people across Sheffield and offers clear progression opportunities for singers, guitarists, bassists, keyboard players and drummers.

Sheffield Music Hub is committed to making music accessible to all young people. Free places are available for eligible families through bursary support, ensuring cost is not a barrier to participation.

Whether you're picking up your instrument for the first time in a band setting or working towards becoming Sheffield's next great band, the new Rock and Pop Pathway provides a supportive environment to learn, grow and perform.

Interested in joining? Find out more and sign up via the Sheffield Music Hub website here or contact musichubprojects@sheffield.gov.uk for further information.