NMPAT Contemporary members are formed into bands to rehearse songs, write new material, record and perform. We have experienced instrumental teachers on hand to give advice and guidance whilst allowing students their own space. NMPAT Contemporary gives students the time to develop and expand in a safe, friendly environment.
Working with others
Being in a band isn’t just about how good you are; it’s about working as a team with other musicians and understanding the importance of team work. Playing with other musicians develops both musical and social skills. Our teachers will guide you through the songwriting process, working on cover songs and helping you develop an understanding of what makes an effective rehearsal.
Who can join?
NMPAT Contemporary is open to students aged 10 and above who have some experience playing their instrument. The groups are differentiated to ensure that students are placed in groups with others of a similar age and ability. Places are at a premium and where there is not a suitable group, students are placed on a waiting list. You will need provide your own instrument and equipment. Each centre will provide a PA for the bands to use.
Northampton Contemporary
Northampton Contemporary runs on Saturday afternoon at NMPAT, Kettering Road, Northampton, from 2pm to 5pm.
Raunds Contemporary
Raunds Contemporary runs on Saturday afternoon at Manor School and Sports College, NN9 6ND from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.
Kettering Contemporary
Kettering Contemporary runs on Thursday evening at Bishop Stopford, Headlands, Kettering, NN15 6BJ from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
Daventry Contemporary
Daventry Contemporary runs as part of Daventry Music Centre on Saturday mornings at Danetre and Southbrook Learning Village from 9:30am to 12:30pm.
Term dates for the current academic year
Saturday NMPAT Contemporary Schools operate in the same weeks as the Regional Saturday centres. Kettering Contemporary operates in the weeks preceding Saturday centre openings.
We have a registration day at the beginning of each year when you can visit and ask questions.
In the event of unavoidable closures, information will be posted on the home page via the Facebook feed, or for Daventry Contemporary, on the Daventry Centre page.
How much does it cost?
There is a termly fee for ten sessions. For students attending a Saturday centre or county group there is a discounted second centre membership fee. For details and to make a payment, see our payments page.
How do I take part?
If you want to become part of any of the NMPAT Contemporary centres then get in touch! And don’t just think that you need to sing, play a guitar or drums. It doesn’t matter what instrument you play. We will try and find a place for you.
Contact the NMPAT Office or pop along to the registration days. Or email the Head of NMPAT Contemporary – Tim Smith at TSmith@nmpat.co.uk
Places are at a premium and you may be placed on a waiting list if there are no appropriate places.
Achievements and performance opportunities
Every song you learn or write at an NMPAT Contemporary Centre is aimed at a specific goal. We set up our own concerts 3 times a year, as well as at regional and national music events put on by external organisers.
Over the last few years we have had performances at the Derngate, The Deco, MAC Birmingham, Birmingham Town Hall and various summer fetes throughout the county. Students are also given the opportunity to take part in workshops presented by professional musicians throughout the year.
We are in the process of being able to offer students the ability to record their own music. With the guidance of NMPAT Contemporary staff, students will be able to learn how to record using industry standard equipment.
Hear NMPAT Contemporary in action
Students from the first NMPAT Recording Techniques course
"All children should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument"