Rooted in community,
inspired by music
What we do
Grounded Sounds is a music organisation and charity working at the intersection of music education and music industry. Our purpose is to create opportunities for young people under 30 to gain insights and access into the music industry through workshops, development programmes, live events, mentoring, networking and performance opportunities. We provide a safe space and a nurturing community, which supports participants and facilitates potential for growth, creativity, artistry and professional development. Former participants of our programmes have gone on to run successful music events as well as play for the likes of Burna Boy.
Our work is unique in its close networks with the music industry and this alignment offers young people, who would not otherwise have access, the opportunity to be heard, celebrated and supported in their musical and creative endeavours by professionals at the top of their game. We also offer a distinct pathway through our interconnected programmes as young people can potentially:
attend School Ground Sounds as part of our in-schools programme
develop musical knowledge and skills at The Bridge summer holiday music programme
join our in-depth artist development programme and showcase, Spotlight
work with us and industry partners to produce and record a solo EP.
Impact
90+
industry professionals have worked with us to facilitate opportunities for emerging musicians
90+
industry professionals have worked with us to facilitate opportunities for emerging musicians
90%
of young people who completed our 16+ programmes felt confident about pursuing a career in music
“I was pushed to really think beyond what I knew of artistry and songwriting” Nathanael, Spotlight participant.
“I’ve loved being part of the Spotlight programme because I’ve learned so much about the music business, and I’ve found that I’ve gained more confidence in performing” Zoiya, Spotlight participant.
The need.
As a registered charity, continued funding and support is essential to keep this work going. We aim to connect young people in South London and beyond to creative and supportive opportunities that are too often not provided to them, and facilitate spaces for growth, development, support and community for young people age 11-25.
The power of music
Music-making has many personal and social benefits for young people including wellbeing, confidence and self-discipline. (Sue Hallam, 2015).
Crisis in youth services
Since 2011, many of London’s youth centres have closed. Young people need safe, positive and engaging opportunities now more than ever.
Music education under threat
Music is often underfunded and sidelined in schools due to pressure on Maths and English results. Fewer students are choosing to study it.
A challenging industry
There are many barriers and pitfalls within the music industry. Grounded, sensible and relevant advice for how to navigate it can be hard to access.
Paul’s story
Paul is a drummer from Brixton who joined us in 2019. At Grounded Sounds, he developed his professional network and wowed the audience in a showcase. His story was written about in GQ magazine by Ciaran Thapar.
After the course, Paul joined our mentoring programme and was paired with Fabio, the drummer for George Ezra and other major artists. He shadowed Fabio at the Royal Albert Hall (photo left). Paul has since been nominated for a Youth Music Award and has performed with Afrobeat Star Burna Boy at Madison Square Gardens, the 2024 Grammys and more! Shout out to Paul!