By Laiba Saleem
A Music Business student from Leicester has launched a new London-based showcase to give aspiring artists the opportunity to perform live and gain experience.
To Be Heard, founded by Keira Reynolds, aims to put emerging talent in the spotlight in an increasingly competitive industry while also offering audiences the chance to discover the next generation of performers.
“I wanted to provide a way to service artists who deserve to be mainstream in a world where music is becoming a massively saturated market,” said Miss Reynolds.
“To Be Heard allows them to gain live music experience and gain exposure to crowds.”
Although the event takes place in London, its roots are strongly connected to Leicester’s growing creative community.
Miss Reynolds explained that early inspiration came from watching friends struggle to find safe, supportive spaces to display their talent.
“They are the future of music, so they deserve a place where they feel comfortable to grow into what kind of artist they want to be,” she said.
“To Be Heard helps with that as it allows a safe space with an audience that may not know them.”
The name itself was a collaborative effort.
Kiera said: “It was a lot of trial and error.
“Lois Renee and I bounced ideas off each other until we found something that represents what we are doing as a business,” she added.
Organising the showcase proved challenging, for example planning a date all artists were free, even getting in contact with some artists as they are so busy all the time, naturally, and trying to work around them.
Despite this, the event has already gained interest.
“Seeing how many people are eager to buy tickets to the show shows constant demand for new artists and that people are there to support upcoming members of the music industry,” said Keira.
The event is on Friday, December 12, at West Hampstead Arts Club, London.
Although tickets are now sold out, there may be hopes for another one in the future.
You can find out more details on @_tobeheard or email keirareynoldsss@gmail.com for any business inquiries.
