Curious to see Jersey’s budding young talent?

Friday 23 May 2014

You can get more than an espresso in one of Jersey’s coffee shops tonight – some of the Island’s budding young musicians will be playing in an acoustic music marathon.

The six acts, one as young as 12, are part of Youth Arts Jersey which is run by the Jersey Youth Service. They will all be performing live at the Curiosity Coffee Shop in Sand Street from 7 until 10 pm, doing covers as well as a few original pieces.

Assistant Youth Worker Janni Boon said: “We have a really good partnership with the coffee shop to help the young people improve their stage presence – it’s our final gig before all the live gigs during the summer all across Jersey from People’s Park and the Weighbridge to Charing Cross.

“In terms of music Youth Arts Jersey gives young people a really good opportunity to perform in different places.”

17 year-old Luke Piziura: "I like the intimate nature that the coffee shop brings, which enables me to hear the dynamics of my songwriting in a different light to when played as a band.”

Elle Snodgrass, who is also 17, said: "I love playing at Curiosity because it has such a lovely intimate atmosphere. Everyone listens so intently and it's a brilliant way to get your music out there."

All the acts taking part make use of the Youth Service’s studio space at La Motte Street as well as the music courses they run.

Samuel Walwyn from the band Made In Chelsea said: “La Motte Street is very supportive of taking care of Jersey's music scene and they give young people the opportunity to progress and gain confidence when performing."

Tonight’s special performance will kick off a summer of music and festivals in Jersey.