Singer Ms Dynamite is spearheading a music project which will see London teenagers perform with her in a special concert at Somerset House.

Thirty aspiring musicians have been picked to take part in the Under-18s concert which is being supported by some of the industry's leading figures.

The teenagers, between 14 and 18, will take part in a series of workshops led by professional musicians culminating in a performance in front of thousands of people this July.

They will share the stage with Miss Dynamite and The Wombats, who are also supporting the initiative.

Called the What Next gig, it has been developed by the Somerset House Trust and Metropolis, co-promoters with the Trust of the popular summer series shows.

Also involved are Bigga Fish, a social enterprise group for young people, and Rockschool — Westminster University's commercial music course.
It is hoped the concert will give a boost to young musicians hoping to break into the industry.
Ms Dynamite said the project was a fantastic way to nurture talent.

She said: “It is an amazing opportunity for young people. This is such a valuable experience for them. There are some really talented musicians here, singers, beatboxers, and they will be creating some amazing music.

“The project is urban meets indie — two totally different walks of life intertwining, and that is where the best stuff comes from in life. Hopefully this will see them go on to even bigger things.”

As well as musical coaching and mentoring, the teenagers will have lessons on how best to promote themselves, and will use video diaries to record their experiences.

Maria Akpan, 21, from Neasden, is part of girl group Pure Ego which is taking part in the event.
Ms Akpan said: “Having unsigned artists in an event with such big stars, and the fact we are all working together and meeting other people in the industry is just amazing.”

The young people will perform in a 40-minute set on the main stage at Somerset House on 19 July in front of 3,000 people.

Linda Bernhardt, head of public events at the Somerset House Trust, said: “It is a unique opportunity for young people in London with non-classical and jazz education to experience playing on the professional stage and to learn alongside the best in the business.”