[Press Release] MIDI Unveils ‘The Source Studio’: Launching the Next Generation of Devon Talent.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EXETER, DEVON – MIDI (Music Industry Development Initiative), a non-profit organisation dedicated to the growth of Devon’s music ecosystem since 2016, is proud to announce the launch of The Source Studio. Located in the basement of Concord House on South Street, this high-specification recording and rehearsal facility marks a major expansion of MIDI’s mission to provide professional-grade pathways for local musicians.

The opening of the South Street studio is the result of a deep community collaboration, supported by NooKo,  Arts Council England, the National Lottery, Devon County Council, the Devon Community Foundation, and Devon Music Education Hub. This facility allows MIDI to provide a focused environment where artists can transition from grassroots creative exploration into high-level career development.

Police Inspector Nathan Johnson was fundamental in the project – introducing Max to Nick at a community event in Exeter city centre, discussing community based solutions to address and create opportunities to reduce anti-social behaviour. Nathan has a vision to “link up” the city’s established music, sport, and youth networks to provide a vital diversion for bored teenagers. A proactive approach like that from MIDI and NooKo aims to steer young people away from city centre disruption and into the wealth of creative opportunities Exeter already has to offer.

Inspector Nathan Johnson, Devon & Cornwall Police, added:  “I believe that helping young people feel known and valued can positively influence how they view themselves and their choices. Understanding the root cause of youth anti-social behaviour and connecting projects like MIDI with enablers like NooKo, the city will see a generation of young people moving from anti to positive social behaviour. It is the willingness of both MIDI and NooKo to adventurously collaborate which makes such a positive difference for our city’s young people.”

Max Sayers, NooKo Director, said: “I love the idea of using art and music to reclaim and transform spaces known for anti-social behaviour, creating new opportunities while ensuring we remain an inclusive and accepting city.”

Professional Excellence & Social Impact

The Source Studio has been engineered as a premier “talent incubator.” Despite its central location in Exeter, the basement facility is fully soundproofed, remaining nearly silent at street level, ensuring an undisturbed environment for intensive production. The impact of MIDI’s work is reflected in their reach, having already connected with an audience of over 400,000 and raised £750,000 for community music projects over the last 10 years.

“This is about finding opportunities for the music that people make,” says Nick Hall, a Director at MIDI. “We now have the space and the time to help artists like Olwyn, a gifted singer ready to develop her sound and grow industry opportunities as an independent artist. The talent is there; we are providing the professional environment to refine it.”

Empowering Youth & Alternative Education

A core pillar of MIDI’s mission is supporting young people who flourish outside of mainstream education. To date, MIDI has mentored 500 original artists across Devon. Of the youth participants currently outside the mainstream school system, an impressive 75% progress into higher education or the music industry.

The success of this approach is evidenced by alumni such as Finn Thompson and Amelie Robertson. After starting with MIDI’s ‘Soundtribe’ project and busking locally, Finn progressed through college to join Birmingham-based band ‘The Untitled’, as heard on Kerrang Radio and radio stations worldwide. They have a UK tour coming up in the autumn. Bassist Amelie performed her first gigs with Soundtribe and, after studying music in London, is now playing European arena tours with rising Indie rock artist Chloe Slater, as featured in Rolling Stone and NME’s Ones to watch for 2026.

Deep Community Roots & Strategic Partnerships

MIDI’s impact extends far beyond the studio walls through strategic community collaborations:

• Urban Performance: A partnership with local police and InExeter led to the creation of the Fore St Busking Spot, a successful initiative repurposing urban spaces known as hotspots for anti-social behaviour.
• Education & Mentorship: MIDI co-hosts annual secondary school ‘Battle of the Bands’ events, allowing students to access top-tier recording, mixing and mastering of their tracks while coaching parents on how to manage emerging talent.
• Industry Links: From Phonic FM radio takeovers to booking slots at Latitude and Beautiful Days, MIDI ensures local acts like Drawer Full O’lemons, who are now gigging regionally, have a clear path to the main stage.

The launch of The Source Studio also marks the final piece of a remarkable urban regeneration story for Concord House. Once an abandoned and unsafe housing block, the site has been completely transformed into a hub of modern city living and wellness. The addition of the studio alongside the existing Vyve Gym with coach led fitness and reformer pilates, completes the building’s evolution from a rundown unit into a vibrant community landmark, now offering high-end residential apartments alongside premier facilities for both physical and creative health. 

About MIDI

Founded in 2016 by music industry professionals, the Music In Devon Initiative (MIDI) is a non-profit organisation committed to developing emerging talent, increasing opportunities for musicians and audiences, and generating business for the music industry in Devon. Through professional recording facilities, mentoring, and community outreach, MIDI empowers musicians to find their voice and build sustainable creative careers.

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Contact: Simon Hoe – press@nooko.co.uk