Belfast’s foremost provider of record production services and good vibes, Mr Rocky O’Reilly has been offering out ample advice for local musicians during these unprecedented (I know, I know, I’m fucking sick of that word too) times. A lot of advice has been really confusing as to how creatives can take advantage of grants and support schemes. Rocky’s taken the time to create a guide to what he’s learned over the last couple of weeks. You can take a look on the Start Together website here.
Here’s what Rocky had to say about it:
'Hi everyone!
We have added a special page to the studio website to help point all musicians towards financial support, artistic funding opportunities, health & well-being resources and more.
We have spoken to many friends this week who aren't aware of what's out there to help them.
It's a little unclear where people get their information online these days, especially with regards to Northern Ireland music.
To combat any chance that anyone is missing out we've posted some relevant information on our site and shared on social media as well as sending a single email to everyone we possibly could, to help spread the word.
If you need assistance then apply for the relief funds, the artistic programme funding, even if you think it's not for you, that you're not established enough or that funding only goes to certain types of artists. Please apply and speak with the organisations who are friendly and helpful. Make your voice heard that you exist and that you need help to continue to be creative.
I look forward to a time when we can open the studios up again and we want to make sure that you're still making music when we do.'
Rocky’s also provided audio mastering services to a fundraising record of lockdown recorded acoustic originals from Northern Irish music. The compliation’s available on Bandcamp now and all funds go to Help Musicians Northern Ireland. It’s got brand new material from our pals in Beauty Sleep, Strange New Places and Brand New Friend and a ton of other great music. Go take a look.