A MUSIC initiative, held at Ayr Central’s Costa Coffee, has given young people a taste of performing for an audience.

Ran by the South Ayrshire Arts Partnership who have teamed up with Costa Coffee, the event was held every Wednesday evening from December 13 until December 27, with a total of seven artists taking to the stage. 

Laura Waters, who organised the events supported by the council, said:

“The majority of the people who were performing had not really had the opportunity to showcase their talent before.

“The whole point was to get young people up on stage, as they are too young to perform in pubs. That is why we used Costa for our gigs. Costa was mobbed on Wednesday, December 23 but I think the sales in town helped with that. 

“Over the next year, we are looking at doing more events that would encourage more people to take part in. 

“It has been confirmed 2018 is the year of the young person and we have already spoken with Ayr College who already have their own record label - Sun Turtle Records.”

Laura was approached by South Ayrshire Arts Partnership and the council, and others who ran the event, attracting people of all ages, from 17 to 30. 

There will be more performances like this one in the next 12 months giving those who would not normally have the chance, an occasion to shine.

Laura continued: “It would be really good if we could build up a network and hold a series of pop up events.

“In Glasgow, there are music concerts in cafes and book shops. It would be great if Ayr could be more like that and get more members of the local community in board.”

Watch this space for more information.