Music Master

Product Details

Introduction:

Calling all musicians and music fans....... Do you play guitar, drums, bass or keyboards? Do you have any experience in a recording studio? Or are you simply interested in music and would like to help promote young bands and festivals in India?

Location:

Chennai: Previously known as Madras, is the capital of the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

Chennai’s history dates back to before the English merchants of the East India Company and is now India’s fourth largest city, home to the world’s longest beach - the 12km Marina Beach. There are many thriving industries including computer software, textiles and leather and motor vehicles. However in this city of contrast, the growing affluence sits alongside near destitution and poverty.

Project Life:

After arriving at Chennai airport, a driver will be waiting to take you to your accommodation, where your host family will ensure that you settle into your new home. Starting on Saturday evening, our local coordinator will host an induction for all recently arrived volunteers. You will also have an opportunity to tour the city and take in the sights and sounds of your new home. Regular social events are also held, giving you the opportunity to meet and socialise with other volunteers and local people, including a free weekend trip on your second weekend

Described as India’s musical melting pot, this Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) has been running for 7 years with a principal aim to nurture new talent, develop band dynamics, teach a positive attitude and share the tricks of the trade. Regular ‘Battle of the Bands’ events are arranged, culminating in an annual music festival in Chennai. The music school provides lessons for all levels and also offers a modern recording studio for local bands.

However, there’s more than music to this NGO: there’s an active involvement in community development, sponsoring underprivileged students through college and campaigning against drug and alcohol abuse among young people.

If you play an instrument, have experience in the recording studio, or simply have a passion for music, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. Your energy is needed for teaching and inspiring beginners, sharing techniques with other musicians, joining a band, or maybe starting your own. It’s all about the music, sharing your passion for it and enthusing others to get involved.

You don’t have to be musically gifted to take part. Non-musicians can also get involved by helping with event management, marketing and promotion of concerts, festivals and other events. You might want to suggest your own event while you are there, and spend your time organising it with the support of the local staff. Lots of volunteers are needed in July and August to help organise a large-scale rock festival in Chennai but your input will be valued at any time of the year.

This NGO has big plans and is not ashamed to shout about them. In their own words: "INNOVATION demands PASSION demands ENTHUSIASM demands PEOPLE. We need volunteers and we need them now!"

Accommodation & Food:

• Wherever possible you will stay in an Indian home or share an apartment with other volunteers. Home-stay hosts are carefully selected and you would normally share a non air-conditioned room with another volunteer.
• Breakfast and evening meals are provided with your host family.

Dates & Duration:

• Minimum duration - 1 months
• Maximum duration - 4 months
• Programmes start on the 2nd Monday of every month.
• Please arrange your flight to arrive anytime between Thursday and midday Saturday on the weekend immediately before your project starts.
• Please be aware that projects often reduce or close their operations over Diwali which is normally in October for approx 7- 10 days,and the school holidays between mid May - end of June.
• The hottest months are May - June and we would recommend you take part outside of these months.

Flights & Transportation:

• International flights are not included
• On arrival at Chennai airport, our local coordinator will arrange transport to meet you in the arrivals lounge and take you to your accommodation
• In the event that you need to use local transport around Chennai, the local rickshaw service is very efficient and cheap (approx £0.40p for a journey within the city)
• A volunteer visa is required, we will provide you with an Invitation from the Project and a Sponsoring Organisation Letter. UK residents, please click here to download a Visa Application Form from the Indian High Commission in London (Visa costs £30).

Safety & Insurance:

• All of Twin’s volunteer placements are in partnership with recognised charities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) government ministries or registered agents, giving you the confidence to work with reputable organisations.
• Comprehensive insurance is available for each of the volunteer placements.
• Our local partner provides 24-hour support.

Eligibility & Skills:

• There are no specific skills required to participate on this programme, other than a genuine passion for music and a will to share it with others.
• Volunteers need to be mature and confident and demonstrate initiative.
• Minimum age 18yrs, no maximum age.
• Good spoken English is also required