Performance: Decades at Rough Trade

Showcasing their music  skills in both performance and production, they took to the stage at Rough Trade, in the heart of Liverpool City Centre, for an evening of popular music from the 1950’s through to the 2000’s. Students brought their a game after weeks of preparation towards this show.

"I found that the Decades Project was a fantastic experience overall, having performed to an engaging and mixed audience, which has given me more insight into the ‘gigging’ scene going forward. This project was extremely interesting and enjoyable, because I was given the opportunity to broaden the genres of song that I sing." - Gabriela Matchett, first year Music Performance and Production student (vocalist)

In completing this project, they walked away with the experience of working in a professional environment at an internationally renowned brand venue, as well as developed their understanding of what it means to be a professional musician and technician. They were also supported by the outstanding efforts of our production pathway students who acted as backline technicians for the show as part of their ‘Tech Crew’ lesson. In applying all they had learnt about being a technician to a professional standard, it meant for an extremely smooth-running show.

"Throughout this project, each rehearsal was different and challenged us all in many ways such as things like changing the key, making the song more individual, deciding what instruments are vital to play in what section to ensure there were layers throughout each song and also things like vocal harmonies which were not found straight away. Going forward, I feel like this project has already encouraged me as a confident performer and reassured that no matter the venue, circumstance or audience, your hard work will shine regardless." - Chloe Smith, first year Music Performance and Production student (vocalist)

All photography by @robinclewleyphotography