Notion Highlight: Che Lingo Launches Union Chapel’s New Voices

A new talent programme for 18–25-year-olds facing barriers preventing them from entering the music industry has been launched by the prestigious arts venue Union Chapel. The Islington arts staple has kicked off the competition to coincide with their 30^th anniversary this year.

Pop pioneer Emeli Sandé and folk maverick Frank Turner have been announced as judges, also joined by Lyrix Organix, and Acoustic Life/Women Connect.

A partnership between Union Chapel and live events and youth education organisation Lyrix Organix, as part of the New Voices programme a live-streamed talent show will provide profile, networking and employment prospects for participants.

The judge Frank Turner has said: “I’m proud and excited to be on the panel for New Voices. As a fan and as a writer, there’s nothing quite so brilliant as finding something new that knocks your socks off.”

Michael Chandler, CEO of Union Chapel, has added: “The launch of the New Voices programme marks an enormously exciting and important moment for Union Chapel, and for young talent. Young people have been particularly adversely affected by the pandemic and training and employment; young performers have had very little opportunity to develop or perform over the last year, and young people from diverse ethnic communities are underrepresented in the live music industry. As we celebrate our 30th anniversary and the return of live music, we are committed to addressing these issues and providing more opportunities and voice to our young people is core to Union Chapel’s future work. This work with the brilliant Lyrix Organix is just the beginning.’”

On August 13^th, a socially distanced and live-streamed gig will launch New Voices, headlined by rapper rising to stardom Che Lingo. Also performing will be soul singer Amahla.

To enter New Voices, email [email protected] and tap into Union Chapel’s social media #newvoicesuk. Tickets are available for the concert here.