It has been an exciting time waiting for The Guildhall Trust to launch The BASE, an innovative, new creative space for young people.
Following a £1.3million investment, the basement of Portsmouth Guildhall has been transformed into The BASE, a safe and welcoming space that provides access for young people aged 11-25 to a band room with backline equipment, a production studio with a DJ mixing space, a multimedia suite with specialist software, a performance space and a lounge/exhibition area.
Over The Summer
Throughout the summer, a series of drop-in sessions will be available for young people to come in and see what The BASE has to offer. Workshops will include ‘Build a Band’, ‘Drum and Bass Open Decks’ and ‘Cyphers with Music Fusion’ which will allow them to explore the space and test some of the kit The BASE is equipped with including a selection of electric, acoustic and bass guitars, amps, Mac minis with creative software, a digital sound desk and a full Pearl drum kit.
Free memberships for The BASE are being offered to all 11-25 year olds which can be signed up for online or on a first visit to The BASE.
The Launch
A launch event, welcoming key partners, funders, supporters and young people into the space was attended by over 100 guests. I really feel that the speech that Steve Pitt made really resonated with the crowd. He spoke about all the hard work from a well-focussed team made a huge impact on creating this space. He gave a vision to the crowd that said this basement is for the next generation and how important it is that we give young people opportunities to thrive in the creative industries.
The Future
I have 2 children, one who is grown up and a musician full time. He would have killed for this kind of space when he was a young teenager instead of a dusty old garage to practise his band with his mates. He actually headlined the Guildhall last Autumn and is so happy there is a space for young people who love music to attend and feel valued.
My younger son who is 13, loves music and I feel will be spending time in The Base building his confidence and finding other like-minded people to hang out with. I am giddy at what bands will be created here or the next DJ we might listen to on the radio. One thing for sure is that there is a cool space that is safe for young people to get involved in and feel inspired.
Find out more here www.thebaseguildhall.com
