Rural Community Gateway

What's your project?

Highland Alternative Music (H.A.M.) was formed to meet a growing demand from young musicians for a venue in the Dingwall area to promote alternative genres of music. Traditional music is well catered for and promoted throughout Ross & Cromarty but it became evident that the needs of young rock musicians was severely lacking.

This project was developed to cater for those needs and offer a venue for rehearsal, recording, tuition and master classes for young up and coming musicians within the community who wish to participate in any music genres and learn about music technology. 

During the pilot project period H.A.M. will work with a number of young musicians leading to the production of demo CDs and a final compilation CD with a selection of the work of participating musicians will be produced in June. A gig is also planned for late June to showcase some of the acts.

Where is it?

Highland Alternative Music is based within Units 6/7, Bridgend Industrial Estate, Bridgend Road, Dingwall IV15 9SL. This is the business park directly next door to the West End Filling Station.

Who's involved?

H.A.M. is a voluntary group run by a small number of local people interested in helping young people develop and enhance their music skills. The main people involved are Andy Rinning, Robbie Dunsmore, Gareth Ince and Robbie Russell. 

Robbie Dunsmore and Gareth Ince are the project leaders. Robbie has his own music business based locally called Robotone. His business covers several aspects of the industry including audio and visual equipment hire, event co-ordination and regularly providing technical workshops for organisations such as Hi-Arts and Careers Scotland. 

Gareth is a well known and respected sound engineer. He works in venues and festivals all over the Highlands as well as trips abroad with bands such as the Jyrojets. He also works with Robbie on Robotone workshops and events.

How is it funded?

The project is non profit making and has been supported by funding from the National Lottery through Awards for All and the European Union under  the North Highland LEADER+ 2000 – 2006 programme. Hi-Arts have supported the project through the loan of equipment.

When is it funded to?

The outcomes of the pilot project, which will run until July 2007, are being monitored and evaluated throughout its initial period. The project is going exceptionally well and we hope to extend it for at least another 3 years. Efforts are currently under way to identify future funding streams.

Biggest achievement so far? 

The number of acts that have been involved in the project has already exceeded expectations, with around 15 acts being involved so far, most of which have recorded some original material.

Any downsides so far?

Time has been a restriction due to the large number of bands and artists interested in the unit. We plan to get as many bands involved as time allows.

Any advice needed from Rural Gateway users?

We are currently working hard to identify funding to allow the project to continue. Please get in touch if you can offer us any advice or assistance with the future development of the project.

Further Information

 For further information please contact highlandalternativemusic@hotmail.co.uk or check out our MySpace page for tracks and pictures.

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