Empowering creativity through inclusive music making
We were proud to host DMLab Colchester at Firstsite, a free music and technology meetup delivered by CLIP in collaboration with Drake Music.
Designed to reduce barriers to music-making, the workshops brought together people with a shared interest in creativity, technology and sound, creating opportunities to learn new skills, collaborate and experiment in an inclusive environment.
As a venue, we’re always inspired by events that bring communities together, and DMLab Colchester was a fantastic example of how creative spaces can support accessibility, innovation and connection.
Having worked with CLIP on a variety of projects and events over the years, it was a pleasure to welcome them back to Firstsite for this exciting collaboration with Drake Music.
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A long-standing creative partnership
“We’ve had lots of brilliant experiences holding sessions at Firstsite over the years, including CLIP originating with a jam session in the mosaic space back in 2015.
We have had amazing support from the Firstsite team since as well, including support from Beth Hull that was instrumental in CLIP’s development.
This meant that Firstsite felt like a very natural choice when the opportunity arose to bring accessible music-making to Colchester in collaboration with the fantastic organisation, Drake Music.
We wanted to choose a venue that would help us to make the sessions accessible, community-driven and artistically ambitious – and Firstsite definitely supports all of these!”
Accessibility sits at the heart of DMLab Colchester, making it important that the venue reflects the values of the project and supports participants with a wide range of needs.
Designed for accessible events
“Good accessibility is essential, especially for this project.
As well as having level access for mobility aid users, it really helps that there are a range of accessibility features including an induction loop, and that there is clear and thorough accessibility info for people with a range of access needs on Firstsite’s website.
Firstsite really sets the scene to engage in creativity and collaboration, being surrounded by the amazing art and exhibitions in the gallery, as well as other exciting events.”
Alongside the venue’s accessibility features, the workshops benefited from Firstsite’s technical facilities and on-site support, helping to create a smooth and welcoming experience for attendees throughout the event.
Expert support every step of the way
“Jess (Sales & Events Coordinator) and the Firstsite team are always super helpful and responsive to us and our community’s needs.
It’s great to know they will help us to make our attendees feel welcome.
The availability of AV equipment has been so helpful and really added to the sessions as well as having the Firstsite team onsite if any questions arise on the day.
We also appreciate having the induction loop available to help make our sessions accessible.”
The workshops welcomed adults of all experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced musicians and technologists, creating a supportive space where participants could develop ideas, share skills and explore new approaches to music-making.
Creating space for collaboration and innovation
“We aim to create an atmosphere that’s fun, welcoming and community-led.
Our aim is to create inclusive and barrier-breaking music and sound technology workshops, where our members have the space to experiment, develop and share skills, build or hack music-making tools, and connect with like-minded people.”
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