The Melting Pot 2024
As part of Daisi’s Shifting Sounds project, which supports young people’s access to music in North Devon and Torridge, the Melting Pot event returned for a second year. Following the success of the 2023 event, Youth Music provided full support for another showcase, celebrating the region’s emerging musical talent. Hosted at The Plough Arts Centre in Torrington, the event brought together around 30 young performers, creating an inspiring and lively atmosphere.
“Amazing feeling of community and peer to peer support for young musicians. So much talent, very moving”
The event was managed by local musicians Sam Lythgoe Jones and Baz Bix, alongside junior event managers Lola Compton and Leah Walsh, who took the lead on venue décor and performer networking. Across two stages, 19 acts performed a diverse mix of genres, from solo singer-songwriters to eight-piece bands, with styles ranging from pop and rock to folk and indie. The packed auditorium reflected the enthusiasm and appetite for live music among young people in the area.
Funded by Youth Music and Devon Music Education Hub, Shifting Sounds continues to explore ways of helping young people connect, create, and perform. The Melting Pot is just one of several initiatives developed to provide spaces where young musicians can meet, collaborate, and be inspired by their peers—strengthening the region’s musical community.
“Events like this are so very important…what is offered in schools is so little in terms of time and quality and it doesn’t reach the community. For those who are home educated it gives a chance to meet those who are creative, and Daisi gives opportunities to perform in public. Many youngsters live miles from the towns and find it hard to connect with others who share the same interests in music. I consider Daisi a lifeline.”
“I would like to say a massive thank you for holding this event at my local theatre, it was an amazing afternoon of fun!“
