The Live Music Lab (LML) is a month-long training programme that aims to empower and upskill young musicians and those interested in pursuing careers within the live music industry’s eco-system.
LML is the brainchild of Bassline and the French Institute of South Africa (IFAS) with the objective to nurture South Africa’s young music creatives, connect them with key professionals and partners in the industry, and catalyse their entry into the live music space.
The programme consists of a specially designed curriculum of 5 modules and 57 hours of immersive learning. This includes lessons in The History of South African Music, Artist Wellness, Concert Promotion, Artist Management, Technical Production and Stage and Backstage Management, with the intention of equipping trainees with a holistic understanding of the industry and the opportunities that lie within it.
The first iteration of the programme kicked off in Johannesburg in June 2024. Fifteen participants were selected for the immersion programme and received training in event management, concert promotion, music industry marketing, and technical production. Job creation within the sector was a key focus so participants earned hands-on experience at Johannesburg’s acclaimed Bassline Fest by Bassline, and IFAS’s Fête de la Musique.
One participant, Phumelela Mbutho, said: “It [the programme] helped me connect deeply with my career, sparking the ideas that were forming in my mind and giving me the confidence and structure to move forward. It’s strange but true – being part of LML gave me a sense of validation, like a stamp of approval to push the concepts I envisioned.”
Following the programme’s success in Johannesburg, a second iteration of LML took place at Bertha House in Cape Town in October 2024. One of the highlights of this iteration was the instrument workshop led by Cameron Ward and his band. The participants, ranging from eight years old to late teens, contributed enthusiastically, culminating in a performance with the band. Furthermore, participants gained hands-on experience at the WOMAD Festival.
Where are they now?
LML has so far placed 10 participants in paid internships in Johannesburg and Cape Town, where many more opportunities should develop in the recently completed programme. The following participants secured internships and growth opportunities:
- Christelle Ilunga (Cape Town): Black Major
- Kamva Maxesibe (Cape Town): CCPP Group
- Lerato Komane (Cape Town): CCPP Group
- Nthabiseng Leballo (Johannesburg): Content Connect Africa
- Phumelela Mbutho (Johannesburg): Music in Africa
- Shandukani Mulaudzi (Johannesburg): Lucid Sets Design/Sound GP
- Siyolise Makaka (Cape Town): Craig Parks
- Thapelo Ngobeni (Johannesburg): Content Connect Africa
- Thokozani Twala (Johannesburg): Nana Coyote Production
- Xolisile Plaatjies (Cape Town): Danilo Quieros
Reavin Cummings from Johannesburg said: “I co-founded a company called Soul Solution with a fellow LML trainee, Buhlebenkosi, we put on live music events for underground artists in the east of Johannesburg. We are currently planning our second event, trying to secure sponsors etc. I also was able to put on my second performance as a musician which I am currently in the process of establishing myself as an artist professionally.”
Cape Town’s Siyolise Makaka said: “This programme has been nothing but a blessing. I got out of my comfort zone. It gave me a deeper understanding of the music industry and has changed my perspective on some things. I am now more interested and sure of the role I would like to play in the music industry.”
“After a two-month internship at Music in Africa following LML, I was fortunate enough to have my internship contract extended, and I am continuing to grow professionally,” says Phumelela Mbutho from the Johannesburg cohort.
“This experience has brought out a such a positive side of me that I myself, have not seen before. The energy of the lecturers and other trainees inspired me to be myself effortlessly and I’m learning so much! It’s a wonderful programme,” expressed Kaylee Prins from LML Cape Town.
Stay tuned for our upcoming edition in Maseru!
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