Transforming the Music Tech Landscape
The music industry relies heavily on technology, yet the demographic makeup of the tech workforce within the sector remains alarmingly unbalanced. Artists need a range of professionals, including engineers, mixers, and producers, to bring their music to life. These critical roles often operate behind the scenes, but they are essential for creating polished tracks. Unfortunately, women, non-binary, and trans individuals represent less than 5 percent of the music tech workforce, with women of color making up an even smaller fraction.
The Birth of Saffron
Laura Lewis-Paul founded the nonprofit organization Saffron a decade ago to address this imbalance. Based in Bristol, Saffron aims to improve representation in music technology while nurturing emerging talent among women, non-binary, and trans DJs. Over the years, the organization has adapted its mission to better serve its community, which has expanded significantly.
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Supporting Diverse Talent
Initially focused on beginner-level workshops, Saffron has evolved to cater to individuals at various skill levels. Lewis-Paul highlights that the organization now emphasizes helping its mentees build sustainable careers in the industry. Saffron operates on three main objectives: educating the next generation of music tech professionals, creating pathways for their entry into the industry, and fostering a strong network among women, non-binary, and trans creatives.
With support from companies like viagogo, Saffron ensures that at least 25 percent of spots in their courses on music production, sound engineering, radio broadcasting, and DJ mixing are offered free of charge. This initiative is part of their commitment to reshaping the industry into a more inclusive environment.
Building Community and Partnerships
Saffron’s courses are designed to be accessible, with many held in the evenings or offered online, allowing participants to balance education with work commitments. The organization’s reputation has grown primarily through word-of-mouth, showcasing the sense of community cultivated among its members.
Lewis-Paul and her team actively seek partnerships with record labels and other industry players to create opportunities for underrepresented individuals. While this effort has faced challenges, including setbacks related to diversity and inclusion funding, the organization remains committed to building trust within the industry.
High-Profile Support
Saffron recently received a boost from artist FKA Twigs, who has partnered with the nonprofit to establish an educational grant program aimed at supporting women, non-binary, and trans individuals in music tech. Twigs, speaking at the Music Week Women In Music Awards, shared her own experiences, emphasizing the need for more inclusive environments in studios and beyond.
For Lewis-Paul, Twigs’ endorsement represents not just validation but also an exciting opportunity to further the organization’s mission. The collaboration underscores the importance of fostering diversity within the music tech landscape.
A Vision for the Future
Ultimately, the grassroots events hosted by Saffron, such as the DJ showcase nights, embody the inclusive spirit that Lewis-Paul and her team strive to promote. These events allow participants to demonstrate their skills in a supportive environment, illustrating what an equitable dance floor looks like. The energy and encouragement from the community highlight the progress being made in creating a more diverse and welcoming industry.
For more information on Saffron and its initiatives, visit their official site at Saffron Music. To learn more about the music industry landscape, check out music industry.
