Tim gets hotly tipped indie acts together for the benefit of Kosovan rock school

A technician from the University of Northampton has used his music business contacts to rope in some of the indie scene’s hottest up-and-coming acts for a benefit gig.

Tim Halliday, who works as a performance technician in the Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, has masterminded the fundraiser, which sees much-fancied London lo-fi rockers Happiness headline – with support from Northampton’s hotly-tipped OhBoy!, and Brighton three-piece Broadbay. Also lending his services on the night will be DJ Lal Muttock from BBC Introducing.

Proceeds from the gig, which takes place on Saturday 22 October at The Picturedrome, in Northampton, will go to a pioneering rock school in Kosovo.

Set up by charity Musicians Without Borders, Mitrovica Rock School provides a neutral platform for youth from both sides of ethnically divided Mitrovica to meet as young musicians and aspiring rock stars. Mitrovica is one of Europe’s most divided cities, where the conflict between Serb and Albanian communities still continues with barricaded bridges over the Ibar river, increased tensions and regular outbursts of violence.

Tim became involved with the rock school after visiting Kosovo to document a University of Northampton initiative being run for young people there.

“The power of music to reach across ethnic and geographical divides within Kosovo really struck a chord with me,” said Tim. “The Mitrovica Rock School does so much with so little and I just wanted to do my bit to help, by organising this benefit concert.”

The University’s links to the benefit don’t stop with Tim. OhBoy!, pictured, feature University graduate Megan Amirghiasvand and former staff member Jay Brook, in their ranks.

Advance tickets for the gig, which takes place on Saturday 22 October at The Picturedrome, 222 Kettering Road, Northampton, are available from See Tickets.

There is also a donations page for people who might like to support the rock school and are unable to attend.