1985: More than 20 million copies sold worldwide.
2010: 267,000 copies downloaded in three days.
We are the world, we are the children
We are the ones who make a brighter day
So let’s start giving
-Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie-
None other than the hit charity single, “We are the World”. Celebrity musicians and artistes collaborated to fundraise for famine and earthquake victims! It ignited compassion through a passion for music – exactly the theme for Republic Polytechnic’s upcoming IGNITE! Music Festival 2013. With 16 of the top local bands rocking out to familiar pop tunes and homegrown music, what’s not to love?
Hear it from the producer, Kenny Lim, and marketing manager, Wong Li Wern, as we go behind the scenes.
What did you find most challenging?
As our festival committee is made up of students, ensuring that event planning work does not hinder with their studies is of utmost importance. We want them to excel at their studies and at the same time provide an avenue for practicing what they’ve learnt.
What did you find most enjoyable?
Working with the students! They’ve got really outrageous yet good (sometimes not so good) ideas that bring a fresh vibe to event planning. There’s something new everyday.
Their passion and camaraderie in working towards a similar goal is also truly inspiring and rewarding.
What are your thoughts on the local music scene?
IGNITE! is the first music festival featuring all local bands. Since 2008, we have seen a rise in the local music scene. There’s a lot of young talent out there. Acts back in 2008 were limited, now we have more! It’s been interesting being part of the movement to promote local music.
Would you like to offer some pointers for organisers of music festivals?
Plan, plan, plan! And keep to the schedule. Problems arise when something doesn’t get done on time and snowballs into other tasks. Be forward looking, anticipate potential problems and create contingency plans.
Sneak Pea-k!
Planning
The key to IGNITE! 2013 is the greater emphasis on integrating its theme into every aspect of the music festival. You will be in for an interesting evening with stories of compassion through passion.
Two vivid examples: Caracal fundraised for a girl with leukemia through music. Arajua sold artwork of their extended play (EP), giving proceeds to Indonesian tsunami victims. Inspirational!
Stories like these are set to spark compassion for others in the mostly teenage crowd of IGNITE! VWO and service-learning project team booths will be there to catch that wave.
Event details
16 August: Two contests promoting compassion through passion
12-22 August: Fringe events and workshops, a must-go for singers, musicians, and photography enthusiasts.
23-24 August: IGNITE! Music Festival
Best of all, they’re completely free and open to the public!
Audience
It’s open to the public.
Get ready for the creative and musical talent bursting at its seams at IGNITE! Catch you there.
Image Credits: Republic Polytechnic, Yahoo News
