Waxworks Music Initiative (based just outside of the city centre) is an Award Winning Social Enterprise and Urban Music Studio, founded in 2005 by local DJ's Nick Camaro and Mista Ed. Nick and Ed were struck by a lack of dedicated, quality music based community arts projects in Bradford District so decided to set up their own. Waxworks is founded on the principal that music can be a powerful tool to create cohesion between communities, to tackle disadvantage and to raise the aspirations and attainment of children and young people.
A visit to Waxworks is a startling experience. The state of the art studios (largely equipped through donations and sponsorship secured by the project from music industry leaders such as Pioneer, Denon, Stanton and Sennheiser) see young people from every ethnic, cultural and educational background working on a wide variety of challenging music projects.
The studio offers high quality activities and recording sessions for hundreds of young people from across the district every week. Waxworks has built up an excellent reputation with aspiring rappers, MC's, DJ's and Producers in Bradford and is widely recognised as being the central 'hub' for urban music in the City; providing Vocal & Rap Recordings, Music Production & Beat Making Sessions, Engineering and DJ Workshops, amongst many other activities.
Over the past 5 years, the studio has provided tuition, guidance and mentoring on a number of music projects and has seen World Class DJ's and Producers (including a former pop star who had a world wide number 1 hit) get involved and contribute, developing their ever increasing community. Waxworks' latest staff member – DJ Kitcha – a well respected Drum and Bass Producer who regularly contributes to shows on BBC Radio 1, is available throughout the week for Beat Making and Recording Sessions.
The most recent addition to Waxworks is the “Master Production Suite”, a dedicated production studio, kitted out with the latest cutting edge technologies and audio equipment for all types of music creation. This new studio has already benefited many young people and will see the available resources develop over this coming year. Waxworks' latest project is a youth-led record label which will give Bradford's young music talents a needed platform to get their music out to new listeners. The label has made good head-way, putting out its first two releases from Phoenix the Renaissance Man, a Palestinian born hip hop MC, who has already received positive press for his album – Ascending with the Flames – which is available for download now!
HOT of the press!
Waxworks' own urban music event (Mic Matters) is returning for early 2011. Mic Matters 3 – “MIC MASTERS”, will see the usual showcases of Bradford's best underground music talents and the introduction of MIC MASTERS battle categories...but who will take the crown for Rap Supremacy?
To find out more about Waxworks Music Studios, get in touch with Ed, Nick or Gaz on 01274 738 423
What others say about Waxworks…
“Waxworks is the heart of the music scene in Bradford. Its an inspirational place which helps all those that are in need – its also run by respectable professionals who are always willing to assist and give a helping hand to anyone who comes through the doors. Waxworks has helped me gain confidence and has given me more knowledge about my music and the music industry.”
Phoenix the Renaissance Man
“Waxworks is unique in not only bringing young people together, but in forging long standing working relationships between them. From beginnings in 2005 with no funding, premises, or paid staff, Waxworks has grown to be one of the most successful and respected voluntary sector organisations in Bradford district”
Anthony Waddington, Be Involved Programme Manager, Bradford Chamber of Commerce
