Hi-watt donate amps to Get Sorted

Hiwatt is 'the classic British Rock 'n' Roll Amplifier' and now has donated equipment to Get Sorted! 

Hiwatt have kindly provided us with 2 guitar amplifiers for our sponsorship to encourage young people to learn about music and musical instruments. Hiwatt provide amplifiers and technical support to many famous bands such as Coldplay, The Killers, The Enemy and Arctic Monkeys and we are proud and grateful for the support of this great brand!

Below is a link to the amps provided!

Evil Dave Industries

Get Sorted has been around for years - changing lives through music - and many interesting people have passed through the doors. Here is a quick look at an old Get Sorted employee 'Evil' Dave White! 

Back in the lates 90's and early 00's, Dave White used to be work as Soundman and promoter for the Wellington Boot! Back in those days Get Sorted was based across the road, ands the Welly was a pub. Every Tuesday about 100 young people used to descend on the Welly to witness some of the UK's best touring bands... and Dave would be at the helm, channeling their sounds through the PA system! 

Nowadays, Dave is a Guitar tech for Kasabian (he also occasionally stands in for the band; recently he had to stand in on Guitar playing to thousands when Kasabian supported U2), but he has worked for many top acts including Tinnie Tempah, Bloc Party and Duff Mckagan.

Here are a few questions from his website FAQ - not all of which is overly serious! 

Q: Can you get me a job doing what you do? 

A: If you've never done anything remotely like it before then no.

Q: Can I have a free ticket for a show you may or may not be working at? 

A: No. 

Q: Why do they call you Evil Dave? 

A: A child asked me for an autograph and I told him to go away. 

Q: How did you get into this business? 

A: I got drunk at a party and had a driving licence.

You can keep up with all Dave's movements by following his blog - http://evildaveindustries.blogspot.com/

Rotherham charity funding boost to help teens 'get sorted' with numeracy

Britannia, the Co-operative Financial Services, recently made a donation to Get Sorted to help young people develop their basic skills! Here is the article about the donations taken from the Co-op's own website!

A Rotherham charity has received a funding boost of almost £9,500 from Britannia, part of The Co-operative Financial Services, to launch a new programme to boost numeracy and literacy skills of young people in the town.

The donation, made by the financial services provider’s charitable Foundation, will enable Get Sorted Music to initially reach around 80 young people, using song writing skills, rap music, poems and counting beats to engage under 19 year-olds in its creative and innovative education programme.

Figures show that at the end of 2010, over 12 per cent of 18-year-olds were not in education, employment or training*.

Graham Sutherland, project manager at Get Sorted Music, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our application to Britannia’s charitable Foundation, we are always exploring new ways to challenge and engage our students and, we are all excited about the launch of our numeracy and literacy programme in the new academic year - it will reach across communities, breaking down barriers and engaging with hard to reach young people who, we hope, will then move on to other forms of education and accredited courses.”

Britannia’s charitable Foundation is one way the member-owned financial services provider gives back to the communities it serves. Elaine Clews, manager of Britannia’s charitable Foundation, added: “Developing literacy and numeracy skills underpins everyday activities and, can lay strong foundations for good financial capability and money management in later life.

“Britannia is very much a community business itself and, through its charitable Foundation, can make real and lasting differences to local communities and it is delighted to have been able to support the initiatives of Get Sorted Music designed to raise levels of enthusiasm, confidence and understanding in this key area.”

Britannia’s charitable Foundation welcomes applications from other voluntary groups, charities and schools - it supports projects to promote improvements to education, with a particular focus on numeracy and financial capability.

For further information about Britannia’s charitable Foundation, visit any Britannia branch, go to www.britannia.co.uk or, call Elaine Clews, Britannia’s charitable Foundation Manager, on 01538 391806.

Get Sorted and NEETs!

Get Sorted work closely with young people 'not in education, employment or training' (NEETs), helping them develop their basic education and other key life skills. Here is a story from Paul L!

"We had a great afternoon on Thursday, when Neil Rhodes came into our Multimedia department needing a C.V. completing for use at the Job Centre. We have been looking at how to complete C.V.s in our NEET sessions on a Monday afternoon and it was fantastic that Neil felt that he could come to us and access this service that we offer!"

Get Sorted firmly believes in personalised, individual learning. We know that young people will reach their full potential when they have their individual needs met. This can include education as well as pastoral care and support. We can help them with college applications, interviewing techniques, helping them to find work and filling in job applications

Meet a member of the Get Sorted 'Family'!

Dave B writes here about Jay, who started at Get Sorted as a volunteer but who is now, about 6 months on, is a Get Sorted Session Worker!

Jay (third from right) with some of his learners!

Jay has been at Get Sorted for 7 months, starting out as technical support and has since become a solid member of the crew, specialising in Graphic Design sessions and school activities"

In Jay's own words; "I was nervous and shy when I first got here but, because of the warm and friendly staff, I now feel like part of the family. Get Sorted has helped me as much as I've helped Get Sorted. I find the work very rewarding and I encourage anyone who has an interest in Graphic Design or Music to come down and give it a try!"

Jay has proved himself to be a loyal and versatile member of staff who has a very bright future at Get Sorted!

Volunteers are welcome at Get Sorted as we are always looking for volunteers who care about young people, enjoy music and the arts and want to gain experience in the voluntary sector. For those who complete their voluntary hours, there are opportunities to stay with the project as a volunteer or train to be a mentor, session worker or in some cases an employee... like Jay! So if you do have a set of special skills like Jay, and want to volunteer at Get Sorted, get in touch.

Meeting Thomas Turgoose

Last week Thomas Turgoose, star of "This is England", came to Get Sorted to help promote a charity single recorded by G-Dott. Here are a few words from Get Sorted's Glenn Moss...

"I met Thomas when he came to Get Sorted to promote a charity single for local rapper Guy Lawther AKA G Dott. Guy has attended many sessions at Get Sorted where we have helped him develop his skills as a rapper and producer.

Guy had the inititative to contact the entire cast of "This is England" to see if they would help him promote his single and was rewarded for his efforts when main star Thomas Turgoose kindly agreed to help lend a hand.

We were happy to host Calender news, who came to interview Guy, and he featured on the show on Friday16th September."

Having a high profile celebrity, who realised the importance of working with young people, helping them develop and achieve their aspirations, was really good for all down at Get Sorted and all were glad to have him!

Rapper's charity single for Ebonie

Jay Mya is an former Get Sorted student, and is featured in this Rotherham Advertiser article about his new charity single released this summer.

A ROTHERHAM rapper has written a heartfelt song to help send a three-year-old girl for a life-saving operation in America.

Jay Mya penned charity single Chasing Rainbows, featuring Jason Quainoo, when he heard little Ebonie Webb’s story.

When the youngster was six months old she was diagnosed with a brain tumour, which has left her visually impaired.

Prolonged efforts to beat the cancer have been unsuccessful and Ebonie needs specialist treatment only available in the US.

Family and friends have been raising cash towards the £65,000 target—and Jay hopes  that the proceeds from the song will help.

He said: “Ebonie is such a beautiful and caring child with so much potential.

“Although the target is high, we are never going to lose hope in saving her. Even though it feels like we are actually chasing rainbows, we have all the love and support we need to achieve this almost impossible dream.”

Ebonie’s parents Michael and Leanne, of Barnsley, first realised something was wrong when they noticed a frequent flickering in her eyes.

After diagnosis, Ebonie had 18 months of chemo at Sheffield Children’s Hospital and another recent course has again been unsuccessful.

Radiotherapy would present too many risks to Ebonie’s future health, so the preferred treatment is proton therapy is only available in the US.

Kyle Clayton - New Liquid DJ

A Get Sorted student lands a slot at a top Rotherham nightclub!

Kyle Clayton, a Get Sorted student, has got a regular resident DJ slot at the Liquid nightclub in Rotherham at the underage 'Pop and Crisps' night!

Get yourself down there and see the skills Kyle honed at Get Sorted put into action!

Get Sorted has loads of experience in developing young DJ's and MC's; from the Inspire project giving young people the opportunity perform and record their work right through to recording and working with local heroes G-Dott and Miss Kezzo!

Book yourself onto a course now... (info@getsortedmusic.co.uk - 01709 513099)

New Graphic Design and Photoshop Session!

Get Sorted are offering a new course in Graphic Design and Photoshop!

New sessions have been developed to meet demand. Due to having recieved many enquiries regarding graphic design and photo manipulation, session worker Jay has developed a new and exciting workshop, where people can learn new skills in this area and be creative whilst having fun!

Please contact Get Sorted for booking onto the course (info@getsortedmusic.co.uk - 01709 513 099)

G-Dott on ITV

G-Dott, a local rap hero, appeared on ITV with "This is England" star Thomas Turgoose, while recording at Get Sorted with Jenna James.

G-Dott talks about growing up in Rotherham, his new charity single and is seen here, in this home-made video of his ITV interview, along with Jenna James recording his new single, "This is England" which is due out on the 23rd September.

Get sorted Student Results!

Dozens of Get Sorted students taking lessons in many different instruments have recieved their results!

Students have taken examinations in many different types of instruments, have passed and have recieved their results from 3 different awarding and examining bodies; Rockschool, NCFE and the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).

All students have done really well and, along with their examination results, are getting a 'big well done' from Get Sorted tutors!

Get Sorted offers tuition in guitar, drums, vocals, bass guitar, piano, strings amongst others, so why not get in touch and book yourself in? Remember also that Get Sorted have a 'Free Lesson' offer to get you in to the swing!

Edexcel - Functional Skills being taught at Get Sorted

Get Sorted is now delivering the Edexcel - Functional Skills qualification.

This new qualificiation (Functional Skills) is being taught by our learning centre team in "The Shed" to help support our school partnerships and young people who need numeracy, literacy and ICT qualifications. It is available from Entry One level through to Level 2.

Here is what the EdExcel website says about Functional Skills:

"Functional skills are qualifications in English, maths and ICT that equip learners with the basic practical skills required in everyday life, education and the workplace.

They are stand-alone qualifications in their own right, but they're also embedded within GCSEs, and are a component of the 14-19 Diploma and the Foundation Learning suite of qualifications. In addition, functional skills are a mandatory part of the BTEC Apprenticeships framework. From September 2012, functional skills will be the only skills component accepted as part of BTEC Apprenticeships."

The Get Sorted Learning Centre (known as The Shed to the young people) is a detached bungalow behind the main building. Throughout the years the Learning Centre has grown and developed and now provides excellent facilities for young people who are looking for an alternative curriculum. Here, young people can learn how to learn again, reach their own potential, achieve qualifications and take exams, receive pastoral support and work towards their own goals. When the time comes for them to leave school, they can move on to our Stepping Stone project where they will be supported until they find work, move on to further education or join the NEETs programme. Referrals come from a wide range of services including schools, social services, know the score (drugs counselling team) and other voluntary and statutory agencies.

Speechless to Superstar!

A Get Sorted student recently was featured in Pick Me Up magazine for his performance at Kelford School's music competition!

Chris is a 14 year old guitar student at Get Sorted who wanted to develop his guitar skills for a music competition at Kelford School, his school. He came first place, winning a trophy, and is now focusing on his singing and songwriting skills!

His story was featured in 'Pick Me Up' magazine, with a whole page dedicated to documenting his progress and determination which culminated in the performance that left his mother "watching open-mouthed" and earned him a "standing ovation from the audience".

So why not book yourself in for some lessons and join Chris in the limelight! All Get Sorted lessons are based on the students needs making them personalised and meaningful. Throughout the year you will receive progress reports and homework diaries will keep the younger ones on track and encourage them to practise at home.

Your personal tutor will work to your strengths and help you explore your hidden potential. Once you have mastered the basic techniques, just choose the styles you want to develop and your tutor will support you. Compose your own music, work towards an exam or learn for pleasure and enjoyment. Want to learn to play your favourite songs, bring them with you and you'll soon be playing or singing along with them.

Get Sorted Creative Arts Clubs

Get Sorted runs a whole load of different after-school clubs... ask at reception for a flyer!

Get Sorted's school timetable is quickly getting booked up with many schools asking for our After-School services and PPA (Planning, Preparation and Assessment) Time Clubs. We currently have a few spaces left this term, but these places are being snapped up so be quick getting in touch if you would like to benefit from these clubs.

We are extremely pleased to be so busy supporting local schools this early in the year, and look forward to the work that wikll be done through out the year!

Mista M "Do U Remember" video

Mista M, formerly a "Voluntary DJ/ Emcee Tutor At Get Sorted Academy Of Music", appears here in his video, parts of which were filmed at Get Sorted!

Mista M also appeared with Miss Kezzo and Lady E at the Rotherham Show 2011!

Miss Kezzo @ Sheffield Pride 2011

Miss Kezzo was a DJ/MC Tutor at Get Sorted a few years back and now she is a well established musician. Here is a video of her set with Lady E from Sheffield Pride 2011. This video is taken from Miss Kezzo's YouTube page

Jamie Welsted

Just to show what a bit of hard work can achieve - James Welsted (an former Get Sorted-er) is now a drum tutor in Leeds. Here is his  (condensed) MJP tuition profile!

Qualifications:

BA (Hons) 1st Class, Popular Music Performance (Drum Kit), BTEC National Diploma Popular Music, Grade 8 Rockschool, Grade 3 Theory (ABRSM)

Experience:

I have been teaching drums for about 5 years, in this time I have worked in a number of institutions, including - Get Sorted Academy of Music, Yorkshire Drum School, Music Academy for Schools and Communities. I Have also worked for other teaching agencies including Sound Generation. During this time I have gained extensive experience in teaching children and adults on a one to one basis, in small groups, and in large groups. While working at these institutions my teaching practice was monitored for quality and efficiency.

In terms of performance, I have worked with many different bands and ensembles in Europe and the USA, highlights for me are playing with blues legend Frank White, playing Scarborough Jazz Festival with well known Jazz singer Nicki Allen and touring California with 1980’s Indie band St Christopher. I am a working musician, performing at least once a week around the UK with various function bands.

Teaching Style:

I would describe my teaching style as laid back and informal, however, I do expect my students to take on board what I say and to see development over a period of time.

Syllabi:

Depending on the student my lessons are based on a number of different syllabi, these include Rockschool examinations for those wishing to “do grades”, Practical Percussion (Kevin Edwards) for beginners and my own, personally developed syllabus for intermediate to advanced students.

Specialties:

As well as being very well experienced in teaching beginners, I take pride in my technical knowledge of the instrument, having studied with some of the leading technicians in the country I can offer knowledge to players that feel their technique is limiting their musical expression. In terms of musical styles my specialities are pop, rock, funk, fusion and jazz.

Sample Tuition Video:

Testimonial:

“Over the years l have known Jamie, l have always found him to be friendly, trustworthy and a pleasure to work with. He has excellent people’s skills and is a good team member. He is an excellent drummer and knows how to get the best out of the children and young people he is tutoring. His relaxed and friendly personality make it easier for people to learn and his way of teaching shows differentiation so he is able to work with those with special needs to those classed as gifted and talented.”

- Genya Johnson (Executive Director-Get Sorted Academy of Music)

Charity gets cash boost

An article taken from The Star, 23 August 2011 about Get Sorted winning a new Grant from Britannia

A Rotherham charity is celebrating after receiving a £9,500 grant to boost the numeracy and literary skills of young people in the town through music.

Get Sorted Music received the cash from Britannia – part of The Co-operative Financial Services – to use songwriting skills, rap music, poems and counting beats to help young people improve their reading, writing and counting skills.

Graham Sutherland, project manager at Get Sorted Music, said: “We are thrilled with the success of our application to Britannia’s Charitable Foundation.

“We are always exploring new ways to challenge and engage our students and we are all excited about the launch of our numeracy and literacy programme in the new academic year.

“It will reach across communities, breaking down barriers and engaging with hard-to-reach young people who, we hope, will then move on to other forms of education and accredited courses.”

Elaine Clews, manager of Britannia’s Charitable Foundation, said: “Developing literacy and numeracy skills underpins everyday activities and, can lay strong foundations for good financial capability and money management in later life.”

Visit Get Sorted Music www.getsortedmusic.co.uk to find out more about the charity.

Just Look At Me Now!

Get Sorted are featured in a report on the 'Just Look At Me Know' project that was published by IBK Initiatives.

The Living and Learning Now pilot project (Sheffield and Barnsley), funded by the Learning and Skills Council and delivered by Mencap, is designed to enable disabled young people with high support needs have greater choice about what to do with their lives when they leave school.

Get Sorted provided “opportunities for everyone, including young disabled people, to learn to play musical instruments, sing, film making, drama and dance, music technology and DJ and MC skills.”

And a quote from Genya, taken from the report, sum’s it all up:

 

“I think they have all benefited from it. It has been an exciting project, it has been exciting for the service users because they have had the opportunity for choices they have never had before.”

Get Sorted Re-opens!

Get Sorted opens its doors for a new school year of music and learning!

After 2 weeks of rest and relaxation Get Sorted staff are back and ready for another year of “changing lives through music” and will be welcoming students old and new... if you always wanted to play an instrument there is no better time than now! Just get in touch with Get Sorted and arrange your lessons - remember that Get Sorted have a 'Free Lesson' special offers - click to find out more!

During the break the main reception area and foyer have been redecorated and spruced up and the noticed boards all have new displays with photos from the very successful summer activities… a fresh look for a fresh new year!

Please help us spread the Get Sorted message by telling all your friends about this blog and please go to, and ‘like’, our facebook page (www.facebook.com/getsortedmusic).