"I was expelled from my college course at Circomedia when I was 16 because of my poor participation, which was mainly due to my crippling anxiety and non-existent confidence.

I found out about Trinity's courses for young people online and signed up for some free classes and workshops as part of the 2007 Bristol Sound Project led by Nick Young. I took part in a mixing class with Souljah Clique, a scratching class with Dutty Girl, amazing singing workshops with the fantastically talented Kizzy Morrell from Studio 7, theatre sessions with director Dave Lovatt and a graffiti workshop with Bristol street-artist Silent Hobo.

I then went on to re-do the college course at Circomedia I was expelled from and received a triple distinction.

After one year of their professional course I went on to study at a well known circus school in Montpellier, France, where I had wanted to go for years. I've been working with a circus in France and now plan on coming back to Bristol to continue training and hopefully spend some time volunteering at the place which helped me gain my confidence.

The Trinity Centre is a truly unique organisation filled with talented people driven to encourage young aspiring creatives and support those who need it. My time there was special and even as a lost moody teenager I didn't feel judged or belittled - totally the opposite. I can't recommend their courses enough."

Each year Trinity works with 60 young people from challenging circumstances across our learning programme and activities. We work with young people who have fallen out of education, helping them to can gain confidence, develop skills and find routes back into education or employment.

If you would like to support our work with young people, visit our Just Giving page or text TYTP99 £[the amount you want to donate] to 70070 to donate to the Trinity Youth Training Project today.

Rob Drysdale, from "Stick It On" (Brighton), just donated £500 towards our Youth Music Training Programme!

Rob's support is a great vote of confidence in our mission and will help us to respond to a growing demand for the provision we offer, protecting the future of this vital programme.

Trinity has been delivering music training sessions to disengaged young people since 2005. We offer a variety of music drop-in sessions, tailored to individual or group needs. We work in partnership with pupil referral units, schools and organisations to provide regular support. Our students choose what they would like to focus on, incl: drumming, guitar, bass, vocal tuition, Dj’ing and music production.

A personal friend of DJ Derek, Rob was aware of the Sweet Memory Sounds legacy fund that DJ Derek's family set up in his honour in 2016, and how last year it supported Trinity’s work with disengaged young people, including young offenders and those with other health and behavioural issues through music making.

Rob felt inspired and said to us: "I'm very happy to support a Bristol charity that supports youth development in music. DJ Derek was a good friend and it feels good to make a contribution to his local community."

Get involved

If you, like Rob, would like to support our work, please get in touch with us! You can also make a one-off or monthly donation directly on our website or through justgiving

If you are a young person that would like to attend a course, or if you are looking to refer a young person, then you can call us on 01179351200 and chat to Dave Thomas (Training Coordinator) or ping him an email: davet@3ca.org.uk

Stick It On is an alternative DJ entertainment service transforming parties into something personal, engaging and most importantly fun - check out their website here, to find out more.

Trinity aims to provide unique opportunities for young people from challenging circumstances who are interested in developing a music career. Our in-house music training department has begun an exciting new initiative that provides young people with a chance to meet some of the national and international touring artists that perform within the legendary Trinity Centre – one of Bristol's key live music venues.

The first of these sessions took place in October 2015 with prolific Canadian multi-instrumentalist, heavy-rock legend, Devin Townsend. Devin was the founder, songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist in extreme metal band Strapping Young Lad (1994-2007) and has also had an extensive career as a solo artist.

Passing through Bristol on a rare 7 date UK acoustic tour, Devin happily took time out of his busy schedule to take questions from a group of 10 music students. Devin was incredibly welcoming throughout and the young people were visibly in awe as Devin discussed the perils of rock 'n' roll excess and unrealistic over ambition. He stressed that music should remain an enjoyable creative process, as opposed to a career driven choice, which was very inspiring for the young people.

He gracefully allowed the students to observe his sound check, giving the group a unique insight into the professional processes involved in ensuring sound levels for each instrument are balanced and correct, in order to best match the acoustics of the space and artist. Finally, he took time at the end to sign CDs and have photos with the students, before carrying on preparing for the show at Trinity, which was a huge success and well received by the audience on the night.

A big thank you to Devin for making our first Industry Insights session possible!

Jack's biography states: "Jack combines electric guitar, drum machines, keyboards, and an R&B-friendly falsetto to fashion smooth, club-ready electro-pop. Hailing from Little Chalfont, Buckinghamshire, England, Garratt started writing songs at the age of 12. When he got his first laptop in his late teens, he began experimenting with more advanced music production, eventually releasing the single "I Couldn't Want You Anyway" in early 2014. It made waves on the Internet, especially in the U.K., and led to festival appearances as well as a sold-out London record-release show later that year for Remnants, his debut EP on Island."

Jack kindly took time out of his busy touring schedule to speak to students, answering questions that covered a wide range of topics. These included the creative process, approaches to song writing, the perils of touring and how to go about establishing a successful career within the modern music industry.

His main piece of advice was simply to enjoy what you do and stay to true to yourself.

Everyone here at Trinity wishes Jack all the best of luck and success with his album release early next year.

The Trinity training department was pleased to arrange an incredible opportunity for young people from the local area to observe legendary producer, composer, DJ and multi instrumentalist Nitin Sawhney sound check just hours before his much anticipated packed out show here at Trinity Centre.

Backed by a full 8 piece band, including three vocalists, flutes, tablas, guitar, bass and drums. Nitin kindly allowed the students access to the technical process providing a rare glimpse into the intricacies involved with the professional music industry practice of sound checking for a high profile show.

Nitin Sawhney is one of the most distinctive and versatile musical voices around today. Firmly established as a world-class producer, songwriter, DJ, multi-instrumentalist, orchestral composer and cultural pioneer, Sawhney has become a latter-day Renaissance man in the worlds of music, film, videogames, dance and theatre.Sawhney’s output as a musician is highly prolific.

He has scored for and performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras, and collaborated with and written for the likes of Paul McCartney, Sting, The London Symphony Orchestra, A.R. Rahman, Brian Eno, Sinead O’Connor, Anoushka Shankar, Jeff Beck, Shakira, Will Young, Joss Stone, Taio Cruz, Ellie Goulding, Horace Andy, Cirque Du Soleil, Akram Khan, Deepa Mehta, Mira Nair, Nelson Mandela and John Hurt. Performing extensively around the world, he has achieved an international reputation across every possible creative medium.

Nitin was also kind enough to have a chat with our students afterwards to discuss his experiences and share insights into the music industry. Everyone at Trinity would like to express our sincerest thanks and gratitude to Nitin, his band, crew and management for making this opportunity possible.

We have a number of students who showed an interest in music, both playing, singing, rapping and writing. We have not had the capacity on-site to facilitate sessions or to accommodate and further such interests, and so had to outsource teaching sessions.

Trinity seemed ideal as they were able to tailor the sessions to meet the individual interests and needs of the student, as well as having a sound understanding about the types of young people we work with. Often our young people require a different approach than is provided at more mainstream provisions, and being able to tailor sessions to their specific interests has been ideal when considering the level of engagement.

So far all of our student who have attended the sessions have given positive feedback about the work they are carrying out, as well as showing clear progression, even in this short amount of time. Often it is the engagement with the session that these young people find difficult; however we have seen little evidence of this being the case with these sessions. Having a positive educational experience is crucial for this type of young person, who often has found difficulties with previous provisions.

Trinity has been extremely accommodating of our timetables and the young people we work with. Having not had great experiences with the education system previously, the positive sessions that are held on a 1:2:1 basis not only strengthen their musical ability and interest, but also goes towards creating a more optimistic attitude to new situations and experiences available to them. Our students all seem to be really enjoy the opportunity to learn new skills and express themselves in a different way, using techniques that have been specifically tailored to meet their interests.

Imogen Hopkins, Project Worker for Include Bristol CfBT

Local artist Stewy, visited Trinity to create a full-size stencil of DJ Derek, to help promote Trinity's Youth Music Training Programme.

The family and friends of Derek Serpell-Morris - better known as Bristol reggae-music legend DJ Derek - have been supporting Trinity's Youth Music Training Programme through a memorial fund set up in the late DJ's memory.

'Sweet Memory Sounds' helps to raise vital funds and donations to help keep Trinity's music training activities running, so that we can continue to provide opportunities for young people to engage with music - often at very challenging times in their lives - so that they can get back into learning and employment.

Artist Stewy is a keen supporter of the Trinity Community Arts charity and, when he heard about the work Sweet Memory Sounds have been doing to raise vital funds for Trinity's youth work, was keen to get involved and show his support.

The iconic image of DJ Derek - which has appeared in several locations across the city, marking some of his favourite places - is located in the Trinity Centre's Main Hall; a prominent position for visitors and gig-goers of the Trinity Centre to see and enjoy.

In addition to the mural, Stewy also donated 100 original DJ Derek screen-prints, to help raise funds for Trinity's youth music programme.

Emma Harvey, Centre Manager of Trinity said; "We're so grateful for all the support Sweet Memory Sounds have provided us so that we can continue our work with some of the most vulnerable young people in the city. As regular feature at Trinity gigs back-in-the-day, with Stewy's latest mural in place, this feels like a fitting tribute to Derek. We all want to say a massive thank you to Stewy plus to Jen, Mat and Derek's family for their continued support."

About our Youth Music Programme

Trinity has a strong track record of skills development and training, providing music learning activities for 150 young people in 2015/2016 and supporting some of the most vulnerable and socially excluded young people:

“Trinity is important for me because it keeps me off the streets and gives me the space and time I need to express myself. It has helped me build my confidence and has challenged me to try things I don't usually do. They also helped me get a work experience placement.” Nail, Trinity music student (2015)

We have delivered music training to disengaged young people aged 16-25 since 2005; specialising in engaging young people who face barriers to participation and working with some of the most vulnerable and socially excluded. Our work is critical to our locality and fully supports our mission in empowering all areas of society to shape the arts and culture in their own communities.

Click here for more info about our programme.

Images - Stewy (Right); DJ Derek mural in Trinity's main hall (Left)

Images courtesy of ©Laure Noverraz

Area of Effect play Garden Party in 2018 photo @Jessica Bartolini

Garden Party is one of our most popular events - each year we programme family friendly workshops and some of Bristol and the South West's best bands and DJ's.

Our Making Tracks Showcase is an opportunity for young people, from our music making project, to showcase their talent to a 3,000 person Garden Party audience! The Showcase will be on the main stage from 12:00 - 12:30 then, in the main hall from 3pm - 6pm.

Students will join an awesome lineup including Sam Binga,  Rider Shafiue, Dutchie + Indra and Almatic.

We wish them all the luck x

Singer-songwriter Holly Miller performing in Making Tracks Christmas Showcase in 2018

Holly Miller

Holly has been attending the Making Tracks programme for 8 months and has used this time to hone her singer-songwriter craft to create intimate acoustic songs covering universal themes of love, loss and life.

Miss Tee is prime for a summer hit, watch out for her.

Miss Tee

Miss Tee is a multi skilled singer, songwriter and producer who has progressed in leaps and bounds through taking part with our Making Tracks programme, developing her awesome writing capabilities and finding her own distinctive sound.

Sam Neal has been honing his distinctive sound during 121 sessions at Trinity

Sam Neal

Sam Neal is a Making Tracks veteran. This uplifting singer-songwriter's soulful summer sounds are guaranteed to get the crowd moving.

Meghan

Meghan is a multi-discipline drummer / singer. As a performer she is a ball of energy, that can't be ignored - whether it's rocking out on her drum kit or serving fierce vocals Meghan always packs a punch.

Rob B

Rob proves it's never to late to pursue your passion. Having joined 18 months ago his Drum and Bass DJ stylings have thrived producing a mature sound. Area of Effect - Making their return to the Trinity, Garden Party stage Area's of Effect are a young Indie-Rock band - with oodles of talent and buckets of energy.

Making Tracks is a collaborative partnership between Trinity, ACE and Basement Studios. Making Tracks is supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

Jack took part in Making Tracks Summer Music Session Aug 2018 (photo @ Alastair Brookes)

I was 16 when I dropped out of college. I didn't do well at my GCSCE's and ended up on a course I didn't want to be on. I lacked focus and was depressed within that environment. I grew up on a poor estate and the idea of never achieving anything in life was kind of drummed into me.

I was NEET for about a month until I was picked by an agency (LPW) who advised me to start looking at mini courses and apprenticeships. It was through these opportunities that I was eventually referred across to Trinity to take part in the Making Tracks Project.

I really enjoy making music and after some time on the Making Tracks course I ended up taking part in a work experience placement going in every Wednesday for a couple of hours and sitting in on various 121 sessions and even in some cases leading sessions with other students (with Trinity's support).

During these sessions I helped other young people to record vocal tracks, produce original beats and assist live rehearsal sessions. I have also attended professional training as part of the team and gained a safeguarding certificate.

Making Tracks is a collaborative project between Trinity, Basement Studios & Aspiration Creation Elevation (ACE@Docklands) and is supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Click here to find out more about our projects, helping ensure that everyone in Bristol has the opportunity to access and shape arts and culture.

You help secure Trinity's past, now play your part in Trinity's future

Making Tracks music programme for young people

Making Tracks was a four-year music making project delivered by Trinity in partnership with Basement Studios and ACE.

We worked with young people challenging personal circumstances offering space and guidance to develop their skills and confidency through music-making.

Activities included 1-2-1 and groups sessions delivered by professional musicians working in the industry, covering a wide range of music from guitar and bass to rap and post-production.

Trinity works in partnership with pupil referral units, schools and organisations to provide regular support and guidance, to help young people re-engage with school, find internships, work placements, employment opportunities or to go onto higher and further education.

90% of young people taking part in Making Tracks saw an improvement in their musical practise and 85% reported that they have improved confidence and self-esteem.

Making Tracks was supported by Youth Music and using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, as well as support from match funders Youth Sector Support Fund.

If you are a young person who would like to take part in music making activities at Trinity or if you know a young person who would like to take part, please get in touch.

The programme gives 500 people the chance to work for a UK charity of their choice and get paid!

To read more about the garden and Anita's work between April and June 2013, see a transcript of her blog (active until April 2014) here:

Anita's blog

''I am a member of Trinity Walking group and have been with them for a few months. I have enjoyed the walks not been on all of them but I do when I can. I was introduced to the walking group while I was in hospital.

I suffer from mental health conditions and wanted to do something to make friends and keep active after I left the hospital. The hospital arranged a meeting here at Trinity and I came after a phone call and have been going ever since.

Due to losing friends after leaving work and neighbours passing away or moving, I have felt lonely for a long while.

Ever since I have joined this group I am developing friendships and have felt a lot better.

Not only do I get the enjoyment of of walking and the exercise that comes with it, I explore new places and visit places that has a strong family history.

It would be nice to have some more female walkers, as we are mainly men, but at the same time it's nice to walk with new people and develop friendships. During the walk we stop of somewhere and have a cup of tea and a chat. Its good for my well being.

Living on my own I sometimes get a bit lonely and this walking group has given me something to look forward to and the confidence to meet new people else where.''

Trinity runs several walking group activities, involving people from a range of ages and abilities. Click here, if you are interested in joining the Trinity Walking Group, or taking part in our other Trinity Community Garden activities.

The meal is very wholesome coming straight out of the earth in my local area. It is great to learn new gardening skills. My 3 year old daughter loves to run around and play with other children who come to the garden. It is a really great communal space.

I found the day greatly beneficial to my mental health as I find it really meditative to help a garden grow, it feels such a positive thing to be doing as I am passionate about growing food locally and organic, it is a great way forward to help us people and our planet stay healthy.

I feel like I am part of something important as if people could grow more food locally there would be far less dependency on supermarkets which creates lots of unnecessary packaging and transportation costs to the environment. I also feel the community day benefited me physically, being active outside and eating healthy food.

My daughter also enjoys the space and climbing frame and I love that she gets to learn where her food really comes from and that we can grow our own.

I love the Trinity Garden space and all great people working there who are knowledgeable, friendly and supportive. I go to the garden on other days with my daughter to help out in the garden and really enjoy getting back in touch with nature. I feel it is really important to teach my daughter where food comes from and that we can grow it ourselves.

I have met lots of people at the garden who share an interest in gardening and sustainability. It is great to feel in touch with my local community, nurture the local earth and grow things together. It is so lovely to share a healthy organic nutritious meal made from the gardens produce and have a chance to chat and share ideas.

I think projects like this at Trinity are very important to educate people about growing and to keep the people of our city connected."

Luna took part in a monthly community gardening drop-in day as part of our Bristol 2015 'Grow It, Cook It, Eat It!' Project. Read more about project activities here.

In the Summer the garden welcomed local children and families for activity days. Photo @Paul Blakemore

Local children, including Tate, received activity packs during Lockdown. Photo via Twitter courtesy of Tate's Mum

"@HannahMorePri huge thanks to you and @TrinityBristol for the fantastic kit for the windowsill grow challenge! Tate really enjoyed potting them. We will keep you posted on their growth" Charlene L. Twitter

Since the Covid-19 lockdown, we have been working closely with local primary schools and Up Our Street to find ways to reach out to young people in the community who can no longer access our community garden and may have limited access to green spaces during this time.

The first batch of activity packs, filled with simple DIY windowsill gardening ideas and craft activities for families, children and carers to get busy with at home, went out in May/June 2020. Activities include sowing seeds, making bird feeders, scavenger hunts and more. A digital version of the pack is downloadable from our website.

“I think the biggest benefit is that it gives children and families who might not be able to get outside, the chance to engage in nature-based activities. Being around nature and doing tasks like planting and looking after plants are great for mental health and well-being and get children engaged in the world around them!”

Natalie Barker, Deputy Head, St Nicholas of Toletine Primary, June 2020

The garden team are also creating videos on everything from handy gardening tips to fun activities you can do at home - keep up-to-date with these on our social media channels or catch up here.