I’ve been kicking around this idea for a while and I decided I want to give it a try. You’ve heard of those “Makerspaces” where you can go and use shop tools and laser cutters and 3D printers to build stuff? I am thinking of something like that for musicians where you can get a membership and then come and use the space’s computers, keyboards, sample libraries, and recording equipment. The equipment would be available for members in the same kind of way that exercise equipment is available to members of a gym.
My goals for this space are as follows:
-
Lower the hurdles to getting into music recording and composition by offering access to hardware/software that are difficult for one person to assemble on their own.
-
Offer education and training on the equipment, software, composition techniques, and music theory. Teaching can be done through formal classes held at the space or informal tutoring/mentoring from member to member.
-
Facilitate networking among composers and musicians to foster the sharing of ideas and of business opportunities.
I have looked for such a space near me but have not found anything like it for music. Do any of you have something like this near you? If there was one near you, would you go? What kinds of things would you like to see at a place like this that would be the most beneficial for you?
Lastly, any suggestions on how I could get something like this off the ground? I’m looking around at commercial spaces near me for something that might work. I’m going to check out the regular makerspace near me and ask some questions there. Was thinking of attending a city council meeting to propose my idea and see if there is any kind of interest. Thought about reaching out to schools in the area too.