In this series of videos, join Richard O’Neill and Juice Vamosi for a digital music workshop experience which introduces music making, lyric writing, and performance in the tradition of the Romani and Roma cultures to which Richard and Juice belong.

Watched together the following videos form a workshop process which could take anywhere from an hour to several hours to work through, depending on how much time you would like to spend.

We’d love to hear what you come up with – whether it’s written lyrics or recordings of your finished songs. To share your music with us and the wider world, just record it on your phone and tag us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @BradfordLitFest using the hashtag #BradfordInspired.

 

Richard O’Neill & Juice Vamosi in Conversation: Roma Music & Heritage

In this introductory film, Richard and Juice discuss the rich history of the Romani and Roma people, beginning in India, and carrying us through to contemporary Europe and Britain.

For Richard and Juice, playing and making music together has even been an opportunity to explore the connections between the linked and yet unique histories of their communities.

 

An Introduction to Roma Music, Lyrics and Performance

The following three videos introduce and explore the three key characteristics of a Roma song: music, lyrics and performance. These are the building blocks from which you will build your own unique composition.

 

A Song For Bradford: Track 1, 2 & 3

To help you create your own composition, Richard and Juice, accompanied by accomplished musician Mr Duna, have recorded three tracks for you to use; explore them at your own pace, and think about which one appeals to you the most.

When you’re ready, just play your chosen track and start laying your lyrics over the top. Perhaps you could experiment with different instruments or styles such as rap or beatboxing?

We’d love to hear what you come up with – whether it’s written lyrics or recordings of your finished songs. To share your music with us and the wider world, just record it on your phone and tag us on Facebook, Twitter on Instagram @BradfordLitFest using the hashtag #BradfordInspired.

Bradford Inspired is funded by: