Young musicians invited to Hit The Road as touring initiative celebrates 10 years

Scotland’s esteemed youth music touring project Hit The Road launches its 10th year of shaping young musical talent today, as organisers call for budding artists aged 14-19 to get involved in the initiative’s upcoming touring season.

Since its inception in 2013, Hit The Road has been instrumental in aiding the journeys of aspiring young musicians across the country, offering a platform for growth, networking and artistic expression. 

The project has been a catalyst for countless success stories in the Scottish music scene, having supported over 300 musicians across 120 live performances and delivered hundreds of industry sessions. Past participants of Hit The Road include the likes of Scottish sensation Lewis Capaldi, celebrated singer-songwriter Be Charlotte, Perthshire-based pop-rock band Parliamo and uber-talented indie act Shorthouse.

As well as giving young musicians the chance to tour across Scotland and perform headline shows in their hometowns, the incredible initiative, run by the Scottish Music Centre, provides access to a series of workshops led by seasoned industry professionals. These workshops cover a wide spectrum of topics, from live sound engineering to stage production, equipping young artists with essential knowledge and skills to take forward into future careers.

Now in its tenth year, Hit The Road is once again extending an invitation to Scotland’s aspiring young musicians to be part of a legacy that has not only launched successful musical journeys, but has also contributed to the ongoing vibrancy of Scotland’s live music industry. 

Hit The Road’s next touring season will take place between September 2023 and March 2024 and those who are keen to be involved should apply at www.hittheroad.org.uk.

Hit The Road Project Manager Michael Cassidy said: “Reaching the milestone of a decade for Hit The Road is an incredibly proud moment for all of us who have been a part of this journey. Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of live music on the lives of young people across Scotland, and it’s incredible to see how far so many of them have come within the music industry.

“Hit The Road’s primary objective has always been to provide budding artists with a stepping stone into the world of professional music, helping those who may not otherwise have the means to tour professionally and showcase their music to different audiences across Scotland. 

“As we enter our tenth year, we are incredibly excited to discover and nurture new musical talent, and look forward to welcoming a new generation of artists ready to carve their own paths in Scotland’s vibrant music scene. If you are between the ages of 14 and 19 and have a passion for music and live performance we would love to hear from you!”

Past Hit the Road participant and celebrated musician Be Charlotte said: “Hit The Road is still one of my favourite memories, to have had the opportunity to do my first ever tour at the age of 16, working with a brilliant team, and playing shows around Scotland was incredible. Growing up I had no experience of the music industry or any idea how to get into it, but being part of Hit The Road gave me such good insight into being an artist. I loved the collaboration with the other artists on the tour as well, it was nice to share such a new experience with other people!”

Applications for the next touring season of Hit The Road, which will take place between September 2023 and March 2024, are now open. Due to the project’s popularity, young musicians are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid missing out.

All Hit The Road gigs held throughout the touring season are hosted in safe venues across Scotland which are suitable for ages 14+. 

The application process is simple and can be completed through the Hit The Road website at www.hittheroad.org.uk.