Sinead O'Carroll

Back to Class

Back in 2005, multi-platinum selling pop star Sinead, formerly of the internationally successful Irish girl band B*Witched, launched a bespoke nationwide Star Academy - a music industry workshop commencing in her native county of Kildare.

The music workshop entailed an intensive seven hour induction programme for young aspiring performers. Aiming to establish a basic yet realistic understanding and knowledge of current requirements in the entertainment industry, all entrants were privy to guidance in vocal training and delivery, choreography, one-to-one professional advice and individual performances, with a Q&A session to conclude.

Owing to a burgeoning popular obsession for talent competitions amongst the youth, Sinead believes that 90 per cent of all entrants fail primarily on a lack of understanding, a mistaken choice of songs or flawed presentation.

Sinead states: "this was the underlying premise behind the workshop, as we've all witnessed what happens on reality-style TV shows. There's an abundance of raw talent, but they're in need of professional advice, direction and development." Graduating from a distinguished London performing arts college, the ex-B*Witched member, firmly believes instilling the right attitude and etiquette is essential.

Co-founder of Maveric Artist Management in 2001, Sinead focused on developing various genres of artists through collaborative efforts with renowned producers and major labels in UK & Europe, including the enigmatic Murlyn Music. The Swedish hit-factory has been attributed to the success of some of the biggest names in the industry to-date including Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, Maria Carey, N'sync, The Backstreet Boys and Ms Dynamite.

Despite the workshop being geared towards providing music industry advice, Ireland is renowned for producing world-class talent, so Sinead reckons with a bit of luck she will unearth a 'gem' to develop further. Albeit a 'back- to -basics' approach, Sinead insists on taking a proactive role in the sessions throughout the day.