Our youth committee on why all-ages gigs matter

Say hello to MusicNSW's Youth Committee!

Having all age gigs give musicians a platform to expose their music to and influence their peers. It helps develop social skills and create a passion for people. All age gigs are important because they teach impressionable minds the power to express themselves either through playing their music in the stage or dancing in the mosh pit with their friends.

Rivvah, 15

Live music has always been deep-rooted in culture, a refuge for cohesiveness and the chance for young people to be a part of a creative experience that is bigger than them. There’s so much growing, learning and admiration that can be taken from live music events- especially in those formative years. I wish all ages gigs were a bigger thing when I was younger because it’s a chance at supporting local artists and their processes— forming memories and friendships.

Lakshmi, 20

Live music has always been deep-rooted in culture, a refuge for cohesiveness and the chance for young people to be a part of a creative experience that is bigger than them. There’s so much growing, learning and admiration that can be taken from live music events- especially in those formative years. I wish all ages gigs were a bigger thing when I was younger because it’s a chance at supporting local artists and their processes— forming memories and friendships.

Lakshmi, 20

Young people are very impressionable, we want our society to grow up loving things like music, arts, acting. It keeps creativity alive. We could influence them into making music of their own, or listening to a certain type of music. And all in all, gigs have such a nice atmosphere and I believe its important that people have that sorta thing while they are growing up.

Sarah, 13

Music is a universal language; it does away with bigotry, miscommunication, and prejudice, and leaves those involved impartial, candid, and in an atmosphere of acceptance. You just need to grab a buddy, shake hands, and be prepared to have a great time.

Jayden, 21

Having all ages gigs and live music opportunities for young people not only benefits those young people, but our wider community and city too. Young people are so creative and have so much to give - allowing spaces for them to make and consume art can only make our city more vibrant. If we never create safe, accessible spaces for young people to make, listen to and enjoy live music, we are butchering the future of our music scene in Sydney. I believe we have to work together to empower and educate the people who hold the future in their hands!

Casey, 22

Having most/all gigs be 18+ is sort of like having art galleries that are 18+. It’s depriving young people of an art form that for many is incredibly important and a large part of their identity.

Miette, 17

I believe it is super important that NSW maintains a positive music environment that enables young Australian artists the opportunity to share their music with other individuals through live all-age gigs. By creating a strong community that supports young musicians, NSW will continue to thrive as one of Australia's most active and interesting musical communities.

Lochie, 19

Live music opportunities for young people is greatly significant in shaping youth culture and creativity. These all age spaces allow young people to connect in a safe environment, whilst also fueling creative energy for up and coming artistic youth. Not only do these events equip young people with the ability to enjoy live music they usually do not have access to, but also provides a platform for underage artists to perform and share their work; where as these opportunities are often unavailable to them.

Abbey, 19

It’s so important for young people to feel part of something bigger. All ages local gigs expose young people to some of the best undiscovered acts in existence, and without fostering that passion for music from an early age it’s much harder to enforce later in life. Creativity brims all across our youth communities, and all ages gigs are the much needed opportunity to pop that pin and let them flourish.

Andrew, 18

I really think it’s super beneficial to have all-age gigs and live music opportunities for young people as it provides a platform for aspiring artists to share their gifts and gain inspiration from other local artists. Being in an environment with likeminded people is an awesome way to not only connect with the community, but most importantly, share your love for music with other young individuals.

Cryste, 17

Live music opportunities for young people are extremely important because if we as a community would like to perpetuate the live music culture to future generations to come, we need to be able to encourage and allow younger people to also fill and find their creativity within this community. This alongside safe spaces and accountability will allow everyone of all ages to learn and encourage the growth of live music and DIY culture.

Alyssa, 18

It's great to have all ages gigs and opportunities for young people, because otherwise there are just live music opportunities for old people, and they are a lot less inspiring and are the basis for a lot less classic coming of age films. Young people are also more innovative and intelligent than old people. This is probably why there aren't more all ages gigs and live music opportunities for young people: because old people are threatened and upset by the fact that young people are better at everything - as well they should be - watch out Gladys!!!

Llewellyn, 25

Young people are the future of music, and they need more opportunity to shine. We are creating a platform that will engage with and inspire other budding musicians to get their own music out there.

Aija, 20

All ages gigs provide a safe space for young people to listen, learn and engage with like minded people. I also think it is super important to provide up and coming bands with a space that they can share their music with people who are engaged in the scene.

Kate, 20

All ages gigs prove an important space for young people - a space to engage in a music community outside their current age bracket. By working with artists and audiences towards inclusion, they can create a really beautiful place where music is shared, while providing young people with access to performances that they are often barred from.

Michael, 25

For me personally, I’m never happier than I am when seeing some amazing live music, and it sucks that a lot of people have to wait until they are 18 to experience that feeling. All ages gigs give young people the opportunity to enjoy live music with other like minded individuals of any age or background, which is super important for continuous creative development.

Dayna, 19