Dorset Music Forum has been successfully supporting the creative community for exactly one year, and provided their knowledge and expertise of the music industry to over 500 members. CEO of DMF, Suzy Wheeler couldn’t be happier with their success “We are delighted to support so many people at all levels of the music industry. It has been a great 12 months.” DMF will be celebrating their 1st birthday throughout October, and they have a HUGE amount to celebrate. One of the many people DMF has helped is local photographer Steve Cook. DMF support Steve by offering him a place to display and sell his work; Steve says “DMF have been both great fun and inspiring to be associated with”

They have teamed up with local singer/songwriters Julie Staines and Esther Frake to launch the DMF Choir, offering an opportunity for people to socialise and learn a new skill in the otherwise deprived area of Boscombe. The choir is open to all, and perform songs across all genres from rock to gospel. Esther Frake a director of the DMF choir says “DMF are a company full to the brim of the most passionate and driven people I have met, it’s just what we need. Thank you so much for giving us hope”.

DMF have also welcomed a host of new volunteers, providing them with opportunities to learn more about the music industry, and gain practical experience in their specific areas of interest. Volunteer Rachel Campbell said that “DMF have offered me a fantastic opportunity. It is a great place to network and is giving me an the chance to reach my career goals.”

DMF will be celebrating their birthday in style by hosting a birthday bash at their offices in Boscombe on Saturday 24th October. The event will run throughout the day, and all are welcome to join the celebrations which will include performances from local musicians and some fantastic giveaways.

DMF have also launched a new Myspace site (www.myspace.com/dorsetmusic) to run alongside their existing website, Facebook page and monthly newsletter, to keep all members informed of their goings on.

“I’m looking forward to unlocking more opportunities for people over the coming months and years” says Suzy Wheeler. Future DMF projects include “Going Green”, which will educate industry representatives on ecologically friendly practices. DMF will also be actively supporting the Cultural Olympiad, so watch this space!