Local not-for-profit supports youth band to shine at Royal Albert Hall

BlueZd, a youth blues rock band from Twickenham-based Powerjam Band Project, was chosen to perform at the Music for Youth Proms in November. 

Earlier, the band of 12 to 15 year olds participated in two nationwide live rounds, and impressed judges at both the Music for Youth regional and national festivals. 

BlueZd was formed over two years ago when the members were aged 10 to 13. Powerjam founder and volunteer, Anna Texier, who was a Community Heroes Awards winners in 2018, and co-director, Dr. Andrei Sora matched the Powerjam applicants together to form BlueZd. They have been rehearsing and tutoring them on a weekly basis since.

• Watch BlueZd’s performance

Powerjam aims to empower young musicians and improve their mental health by honing their musical and ensemble skills at weekly band rehearsals with like-minded peers, providing regular gig opportunities, and helping them to gain self-esteem and confidence on and off stage.

Powerjam bands, aged 11 to 18, have been showcased on countless local community event stages over the past nine years. One to three members in each Powerjam band are disadvantaged and/or have special educational needs, making up 40% of Powerjam's cohort.

As a non-selective music project for all young musicians, whether budding, serious, or those just looking to play and perform music with others, Powerjam provides the complete band experience and allows all young musicians to retain full copyrights of their songs. 

If you would like to volunteer, donate, or support Powerjam in any way, visit the Powerjam Bands website to find out more about what they do to support young local musicians.