'A Labour of Passion': Inside Morley's Inclusive New Grassroots Venue

A New Era for Music in Morley

In the heart of Morley, within the sturdy stone walls of a former high-street bank, a unique transformation is taking place. This space is no longer about financial security; instead, it's focused on creating something far more valuable—music, community, and opportunity.

The basement vault, once used for storing valuables, has even been humorously suggested by Rob Rideout as a potential second venue. However, the real focus here is on delivering "dopamine hits", "karate kicks", and the power of that first chord. For director Rob and admin powerhouse Annie Forber, this project is not just a business—it’s a "labour of passion" aimed at proving that the line between a spectator and a performer is much shorter than we think.

Community-Driven Music Hub

Morley Live CIC operates as a Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning its primary goal is to benefit the town rather than generate profit for its directors. As Rob explains, "Functionally, the main difference is that there is a cap on how much a director is allowed to earn. I’m allowed to earn what I teach, but I’m not allowed to go pay myself after that. Any profit the company makes has to go back into either Morley Live or the wider community."

This model ensures that every aspect of the organization is designed with the community in mind. The music school is the heartbeat of the building, but it doesn't follow traditional paths like learning oboe grade one. Instead, Rob, who is currently working on a PhD about how people pick up music, believes in the concept of "inculturation"—the idea that if you've been around music, you already know more than you think.

Bridging the Gap: From Zero to One

The "zero to one" philosophy is central to Morley Live's approach. It's about making the initial step in music accessible and exciting. To help bridge that gap, the organization offers "Rock Lab" sessions where students don't just learn in isolation—they experience the lights, the photos, the crowd, and the stage.

Rob explains, "If you’re not in a band already, it can feel like when you finish learning a song, there’s not like a big fireworks moment... Having the gigs on... feels more like a tangible achievement." This approach helps students see their progress in a meaningful way.

Championing Underage Artists

In a city where many venues are restricted to those 18 and older, Morley Live is creating a welcoming space for young talent. Rob’s "Zero to One" philosophy is most evident here, where the goal is to give young creatives a platform long before they reach the legal drinking age.

"I started teaching at a School of Rock, and just came over here and kind of picked that same idea up," Rob says. He recalls a memorable moment with a five-year-old student who said, "The solo in Tornado of Souls by Megadeth" when asked what being good at guitar looked like.

For Annie, it's about providing that first "big cheer" that many young musicians miss out on in mainstream education. She notes that children as young as four have taken the stage, playing piano and participating in "Rock Lab" sessions that rival any adult gig.

Inclusivity and Accessibility

While the music is the draw, the mission at Morley Live is inclusivity. The team is mindful of the challenges faced by individuals with sensory sensitivities and other invisible needs. Practical support includes free earplugs on the bar for those who need them and specialized "Home-Ed" music groups that offer a low-pressure environment for hands-on experience.

The venue has also become a home base for a neurodiverse home-education group. Together, they host a "neurodiverse prom" - an event designed for children who might find a mainstream school prom overwhelming or unfriendly.

"We try to make it as accommodating as possible for everyone to be here," Annie says. "The lift will just let us up, and the doors are that big and wide for everyone."

Supporting the Future of Music

Morley Live CIC is continuously looking for ways to improve and expand. They are currently crowdfunding to fix their elevator and keep the "karate kicks" coming for all-ages talent. Events such as their May 24 fundraiser and July 19 showcase are opportunities to support this mission.

By championing the next generation of artists and ensuring accessibility for all, Morley Live CIC is redefining what a music hub can be. Their efforts are helping to fill a significant gap in the Leeds music scene, proving that music is for everyone, regardless of age or ability.