100 new jobs to be created at new Rocksteady facility opened by Black Sabbath's former manager
More than 100 new jobs are to be created following the opening of a new Birmingham base for a music school.
Black Sabbath’s first manager Jim Simpson and the Deputy Mayor of the West Midlands Sharon Thompson officially opened the new Rocksteady facility at JQ Modern building in the Jewellery Quarter.
It plans to create 100 music education jobs at the new Birmingham base in the next three years.
Rocksteady Music Schools provide primary-age children with in-school band lessons, including 212 across the West Midlands.
In addition, through the Rocksteady Foundation, they already provides more than £300,000 of free music lessons each year in the West Midlands, giving more than 1,000 disadvantaged children across the region access to music lessons.
Tourism bosses said the West Midlands creative industry is worth £1.1 billion and described it as a hotbed for aspiring musicians.
The West Midlands Growth Company – the region’s official investment promotion agency – supported the investment.
Scott Monks, CEO at Rocksteady Music School, said: “We’re big believers in the power of music to change lives for the better.
“Our new Birmingham base will support our mission to help as many children as possible realise the social and wellbeing benefits of music, while creating skilled and rewarding roles for local musicians and music lovers.
“We’re looking forward to supporting the West Midlands’ already thriving creative industry as we expand our team here over the coming years.”
Sharon Thompson, Deputy Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “Our region has a world-renowned musical heritage so it’s no surprise that Rocksteady has chosen to continue their growth right here, the birthplace of heavy metal, Two Tone and many other music genres.
“They’re helping us to create a legacy to icons like Ozzy Osbourne by giving young people more opportunities to make music, sing, have fun, and maybe even start their own career in the creative industries.
“With thousands of new jobs on the way thanks to the West Midlands Growth Plan there’s no better time.”
Jim Simpson, who is Managing Director of Big Bear Records, said: “What a terrific project.
“Anything that introduces the joy of playing music to young people has to be welcomed with open arms and this enterprise really does hit the button.”
Elise Fry, West Midlands Rocksteady band leader, said: “Teaching music to the amazing children of the West Midlands is an absolute privilege.
“Each day brings a new opportunity to ignite children’s passion for music – and in return, I’ve been constantly inspired by their determination, spirit and enthusiasm.
“The next step of my Rocksteady career will be in the new Birmingham office, working directly with schools to ensure they have an amazing experience.
“I highly recommend anyone who is passionate about music and changing children’s lives to keep an eye out for local roles – you won’t regret it!”
