In a free event, sponsored by Music Generation Mayo and open to all, veteran music industry expert Jackie Hayden will talk to aspiring musicians in Ballina Arts Centre on Saturday 7 December at 11am. Hayden will call on his many years’ experience in the business to help guide participants through the process of recording, publishing, promoting and surviving in the music world. 

Hayden was Marketing Manager with CBS Ireland, where he signed U2 to their first record contract and subsequently became a director and General Manager of Hot Press. A founder member of the Jobs In Music Campaign, he was invited by Michael D Higgins, then Minister for the Arts and Culture, to serve on an Irish government Task Force and appointed Chairman of a committee to examine the International Marketing of Irish Music. He has also co-written The Need To Know Guide To The Record Industry and The Need To Know Guide To Careers In Music. His book My Boy – The Philip Lynott Story, was number one for 7 weeks on the Irish best-seller lists in 2011. 

Music Generation Mayo have established a Youth Music Hub in the Ballina Arts Centre, which is led by local musician and youth worker, Dennis McCalmont who runs regular workshops with the young musicians involved in the fully equipped rehearsal space.

McCalmont says “it’s great to be part of a movement that encourages access to musical activity for our young aspiring musicians – this can be a launch pad for success in the music business. To have access to a respected industry expert like Jackie will be a huge benefit to our group. We look forward to showcasing our local talent later that day on the main stage in the Arts Centre”. 

The talk will be free of charge. 11am sharp – Saturday 7 December at Ballina Arts Centre and will be followed by a free 'Live' Music Showcase by members of Music Generation Mayo – Youth Music Hub at 2pm - Don't miss it!