The UK Beatbox Championships & Festival of Vocal Arts will host its UKBC Summer Jam on Wednesday 19th August, bringing together leading beatboxers and vocal artists for a programme designed to appeal to all ages and abilities.
The event has been funded by Arts Council England and the UK Government, with support from Youth Music. Organisers say anyone can attend for free, whether they want to watch the performances or take part.
The day begins at midday with a family-friendly workshop led by The Beatbox Collective, the world champion group which has introduced more than one million people across the UK to beatboxing. The session is open to people of all ages and experience levels.
A second workshop starts at 5pm, focusing on choirs and singers interested in incorporating beatboxing into vocal performances. Both established choirs and individual singers are invited to take part.
From 6pm until 7.30pm, musicians and singers can perform during an open mic session alongside a live vocal orchestra made up of beatboxers, creating collaborative performances and remixes in real time.
The evening showcase will feature performances from The PeteBox, who appeared on ITV’s *The Voice*, world champions The Beatbox Collective and a number of special guests, including Swindon’s own UK champion beatboxer Frosty.
Rupert Oldridge, CEO of the UK Beatbox Championships, World Champion Beatboxer and music educator, said:
“My favourite feedback is always from people who have never been to an event like this, every performer and collaboration absolutely blows your mind.
“It’s all about enjoying the experience, creating outstanding music and memories. There’s something for everyone, all human created and no AI!”
Project leader and co-organiser Gina Akers, from BLENDID Artists, said: “We wanted to create an event for everyone who’s involved in and interested in music. Beatboxing and beatbox-related vocal arts are the most accessible and inclusive forms of music making.
“We want to give people opportunities to collaborate and create content in a welcoming environment, while experiencing some awesome performances from incredible world-level music artists. We’re excited to bring this to Swindon as a free event to help make music open to everyone.”
Organisers say the event has been designed to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for anyone with an interest in music.
Anyone under the age of 18 must attend with a parent or legal guardian aged over 21, with a maximum of four children permitted per adult.
Free tickets can be booked in advance through Eventbrite, although entry will remain free throughout the event.
