The Take Note Music Project is a 12-month creative music programme empowering young people aged 16–24 to explore their musical talents, grow their confidence, and gain real qualifications — all in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Over 48 weeks, participants will take part in exciting music sessions, collaborate with artists, and work toward a live showcase performance in September. Whether you’re into singing, songwriting, production, or performance, this is your space to shine.
Who Can Join?
We welcome all young people aged 16–24, with a special focus on those who may face barriers to accessing music education, including:
Young people from Global Majority backgrounds or low-income families
Young people with special needs or disabilities (with a focus on Autism)
NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) young people
Asylum seekers and refugees
Participants are referred through Children’s Services, Birmingham City Council (BCC), Schools, Young People & Family Services (YP&FS) and other non-profits.
What’s On Offer?

Weekly Music Sessions
Every Wednesday, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
The Lighthouse, 100 Alma Way, Aston, Birmingham, B19 2LN

Creative Music Workshops
Explore music production, songwriting, vocals, performance, and different genres in a collaborative, creative space.

Get Certified!
We’re supporting at least 50 young people to achieve an Arts Award qualification – a recognised creative industry achievement.

Industry Training for Staff
Our youth workers and sessional music leaders receive training in delivering and moderating Arts Award, ensuring the best support for young people.

Co-Designed by Young People
You help shape the project! Your feedback and ideas are central to how we grow and evolve the programme.
So far, 10 young people have already completed their Arts Award — will you be next?
How to Join
Registration is required
Participants must sign up before attending a session.

Meet the Facilitators
Nigel Hinds
Singer, educator, and performer, Nigel brings over a decade of experience to the Take Note Music Project. A graduate of Access to Music College, Nigel has toured nationally and internationally, performed with Soul II Soul, Mica Paris, and Basement Jaxx, and
Singer, educator, and performer, Nigel brings over a decade of experience to the Take Note Music Project. A graduate of Access to Music College, Nigel has toured nationally and internationally, performed with Soul II Soul, Mica Paris, and Basement Jaxx, and released several solo projects. As a facilitator, he blends creativity, technical skill, and deep industry knowledge to inspire the next generation of artists.
Meet the Facilitators
Auden Allen
Auden Allen is a multifaceted creative, DJ, and music facilitator dedicated to empowering young people through music. As Mr. Auden Allen, he has DJed for prestigious events such as the Commonwealth Games, Footasylum, and Alchemist, while also curating his own event series, Elementz, which celebrates all elements of hip-hop culture.
Beyond the decks, Auden runs creative music workshops at Aston Manor Academy, COBS Schools, Unity Academy in Kidderminster, Sandwell Youth Justice, and the ACT Youth Music Project in Aston. He works closely with young people, guiding them in music-making and lyric writing, helping them channel their experiences into artistic expression.
Auden is also an entrepreneur, working to launch Fabacado, a plant-based avocado milkshake business focused on organic, nutrient-rich options. His broader vision includes building a school in Tanzania, where he plans to move in the coming years.
Rooted in hip-hop, education, and business, Auden Allen’s journey is one of creativity, community, and purpose.

Funded & Supported By
This project is proudly funded by:
Youth Music – Trailblazer Fund
With additional support from:
UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) UK Government Birmingham City Council
Ready to Take Note?
Drop in, take part, and discover your musical potential.

Book your workshop

Register for the full programme

Contact us for more info

Website
youthsupport@actcic.org.uk