Sonic Boom Festival Relaunches Free TURBO Programme: A Gateway to Live Music Careers for Young People.
This September, young people in Burton can gain invaluable hands-on experience in live music event management through a free training programme.
By Tom Drysdale
Burton upon Trent is set to burst with musical talent and opportunity as the Sonic Boom Music Festival 2025 proudly announces the relaunch of its highly successful free TURBO education programme. Following a triumphant debut last year, the programme is once again calling for young people aged 15-25 to sign up and dive into the world of live music event management.
This incredible initiative offers participants hands-on training, culminating in a vital role as part of the volunteer team at this year’s Sonic Boom Music Festival, taking place on Saturday, September 13th, at the Market Place in Burton upon Trent.
Festival organisers, Sonic Boom Music CIC and East Staffordshire Borough Council, with valuable support from Burton and South Derbyshire College, have opened the programme to new applicants. Students will gain practical experience and learn a wide range of essential skills, from lighting design, sound, and festival production to photography. They'll work with industry-standard equipment, gain exclusive access to seasoned professionals, and get unparalleled behind-the-scenes festival experience, working directly with prominent bands and artists.
“The course was brilliant. The leaders really cared about us learning as much as possible whilst having a great time. I’m very thankful for the opportunities the festival has provided.”
Last year's participants enjoyed unique access, including meeting headline band The K’s backstage, alongside other notable artists such as Nubiyan Twist and DECO. This year, the festival's free Main Stage headline act is the critically acclaimed band Everything Everything. The full exciting line-up for 2025 also includes: Chiedu Oraka, Eighty Eight Miles, Omega Nebula, Riding The Low, Seb Lowe, The Bug Club, and The Leisure Society. Just like last year, the Main Stage will be hosted by BBC Radio 6 Music DJ, Chris Hawkins, who previously offered invaluable advice and guidance to the young volunteers.
The TURBO programme is made possible with crucial funding from East Staffordshire Borough Council. It's designed to guide young people through Bronze, Silver, and Gold level Arts Awards. Successful participants can progress annually, taking on more responsibility and gaining deeper first-hand industry experience. This year, returning students will complete their Silver Arts Award, known as NITRO, while new applicants will embark on their TURBO journey at the Bronze level. The highest tier, Gold, offers a significant boost with 16 UCAS points towards university or college applications. Graduates of the full three-year TURBO programme will also have the unique opportunity to contribute towards the festival’s Aftershock events, which feature pop-up gigs across Burton late into the evening after the Main Stage closes.
Chris Baldwin, co-founder and co-director of Sonic Boom Music CIC, expressed his passion for making the arts accessible and engaging for young people. "Last year, TURBO gave young people experience and industry connections that could be life-changing for them. It’s a very collaborative learning experience and there was such a buzz backstage, the atmosphere was incredible. The students were able to thrive and gain confidence, it was truly transformative. It’s wonderful to see how this programme is opening doors that go beyond the classroom. It’s really exciting. We want to reach as many young people as we can so we hope to see lots of new faces."
Beyond the festival day itself, students engage in one evening of training per week for four weeks – two weeks leading up to the festival and two weeks after. New applicants don't need any prior experience, just a genuine passion for music, creativity, and festivals, along with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to get involved.
Andi Jepson, co-founder, co-director, and CEO of Sonic Boom Music CIC, reinforced the broader vision: "We believe in the power of music to change a town and we want to inspire the next generation. Our mission is to build a sustainable music ecosystem in Burton - one that drives economic growth, fosters civic pride, and supports long-term cultural regeneration." He noted that last year's overwhelming response confirms the demand for music training and opportunities among young people.
To apply for the TURBO education programme, young people can visit: www.sonicboomfestival.co.uk/apply-now/age-15-25. Remember, the Sonic Boom Music Festival features a free Main Stage on September 13th at the Market Place, with Aftershock gigs starting from 8 pm (wristbands required, available from the website).
Have a positive community story to share? Email Tom Drysdale at tom.drysdale@burtonecho.co.uk, and we’ll do our best to bring it to life!
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