SERIOUS

The development of artists has always been at the heart of Serious. However, in 2000, we recognised that something more was required. In part brought about by the changing environment in the broader music industry, there was an increasing need for training and support for artists. Serious responded to this gap with Creative Capital – a programme looking at the needs of artists with five or more years professional experience. Out of this pioneering pilot project came Take Five – our internationally renowned professional development programme for jazz artists.

Since the first edition of Take Five in 2004, over 120 creative musicians from across the UK and from other European nations have benefitted from their participation in bespoke professional development programmes devised and produced by Serious. Our suite of programmes has grown across musical forms and nations and increased in impact - helping artists flourish creatively; review and acquire the skills they need to survive and thrive in the music business, as well as introducing them to a network of industry professionals.

“Take Five is the ultimate 'demystifier'.  Every smokey, unclear or unknown corner of the music industry can be approached and looked at up-close and within the big picture.  It is flexible enough to be tailored to individuals whilst showing that everyone is in the same boat. Everyone who took part in the process, peers, guests or organisers showed total availability for the discussions to happen... and they did. It claims to allow musicians to take a step back but really, it makes them step right in.” - Robin Fincker, Saxophone