MUSICIANS across the region are coming together to learn and share their skills as part of a new initiative.

The Darlington Music Forum (DMF) was launched to create a dedicated meeting space for musicians and performers to communicate and collaborate.

A four-month pilot programme incorporates a weekly schedule of industry speaker nights, songwriter sessions, jam evenings and open mic events.

Speakers to date have included Paul Burns from Tees Music Alliance, BBC Introducing presenter Bob Fischer, Barry Dalman from the Musicians Union and Brendan Murphy from the Arts Council.

Teesside promoter Henry Carden has provided advice to acts hoping to get onto festival line-ups and Darlington singer Hayley McKay recently led a songwriting workshop.

The Forum’s manager, Allison McKay created the schedule alongside musician Dave Saunders.

She said: “The events have been well attended so far and feedback has been extremely positive.

“We are delighted with the quality of speakers who have given their time and shared industry experience.

“If this proves successful and there is a demand and positive impact, we will look at extending the events in the future.”

DMF sessions are held at The Forum on Wednesdays from 7pm and are free to guests of any age, though under-16s must attend with a parent or guardian.

Upcoming events include an open mic night with a dedicated youth spot on Wednesday, May 4 and a talk from record label representatives Dave Smith and Rick Dobbing on Wednesday, May 11.

For more information, call 01325 363135 or visit theforumonline.co.uk.