Inverness music venue brings together industry big-hitters

Inverness's newest cultural arts space hosted a special production workshop and music industry Q&A session recently.

An Seomar, in Church Street in Inverness, mounted the session in partnership with Enable Works to give interested young people an insight into working in the music industry.

Mark Mackenzie, who organised the event, said: "We were delighted to see such a great turnout of young people looking to enter the music and events industry, as well as those already working in the sector who want to build stronger ties with the local community."

Ross Mackay, manager of the city’s Upstairs music venue and programmer at An Seomar, added: "It's very reassuring to see a group of young adults who are eager to learn, get involved, and ultimately find employment within the creative industry.

“We’re committed to hosting more events like this and ensuring that An Seomar becomes a cultural beacon for Inverness, supporting the local music industry as best as we can."

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The panel, invited by Enable Works, featured key figures from the Inverness music scene.

Among them were Dougie Brown, event producer and promoter for Belladrum and The Gathering music festivals and Jeni Oliver, senior development manager for creative industries at Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

Those attending also had the chance to hear from recording engineer, artist and label owner John Clark; Phil MacDonald, owner of the Gearbox Digital label, events and artist agency; and DJ Emma Ross.

Among a range of topics the issue of rising operational costs for grassroots venues was also discussed along with growing concern about venue closures.

The Music Venue Trust (MVT) 2024 annual report detailed how 16 per cent of UK grassroots music venues have closed in the past 12 months, with 125 spaces permanently shutting their doors to live music.

Additionally the report states that 38 per cent of remaining venues are operating at a financial loss, with the sector recording a mere 0.5 per cent profit margin on a £501 million turnover, despite increased ticket demand.

Inverness's newest music venue, An Seomar is based inside the former Revolution bar on Church Street and only opened its doors for the first time in December.

Enable Works serves people who are facing barriers to employment to obtain and sustain high quality and rewarding careers.

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