Experience with Groeispurt: Jelle Roosen - Wired Voices

Thanks to a grant from Groeispurt , Jelle Roosen, musical director of choirs and vocal groups, Groeispurt able to bring his ambitious project, Wired Voices, to life. Wired Voices is a vocal group that not only performs challenging music but also receives training in musicianship and solfège. Musicianship refers to the totality of musical skills and insights, such as ear training, a sense of rhythm, improvisation, and musical understanding. Solfege is a method for learning music through singing and ear training. What makes this group unique is that each member is developed individually, resulting in a dynamic and innovative sound. Thanks to funding from Groeispurt , the group Groeispurt able to record professional live sessions and organize tryouts, which immediately put Wired Voices on the map.

Filming at iconic locations

An important part of the project was the Live Sessions, during which Jelle’s new arrangements were performed at distinctive cultural venues in Nijmegen. Thanks to the grant, the group was able to professionally record these sessions and share them with a wide audience. The first session took place at De Basis, a hub for musical innovation, and the second at Waalhalla, an iconic venue in the city.

Artistic Growth

In addition to the recordings, Jelle was able to take the Groeispurt of the Vocal Leadership program. This program gave him the tools and knowledge to take Wired Voices to the next level. The combination of this training and the practical work with the group created a powerful synergy: everything Jelle learned, he was able to put into practice immediately with Wired Voices. This not only accelerated his own development as a musical leader but also enhanced the quality and artistic level of the group.

Recognition

The impact of this support was rewarded with a wonderful honor: at the National Balk Top Festival, Jelle won the arranging prize for his song “Lion,” performed by Wired Voices. This success underscores just how important grants like the Groeispurt fund be for young creators. Without this financial support, Wired Voices would not have had such a strong start, and Jelle’s education might not have been fully possible. Jelle therefore has an important tip for other young creators: seek help when applying for grants, because it can make a world of difference for your artistic ambitions.

About Groeispurt

Groeispurt is a Nijmegen grant program for young creators, artists, and performers. The program encourages new ideas and initiatives and gives young talent an extra boost, without unnecessary restrictions or obligations. It is a flexible and fast way to provide support, encouraging new developments and helping art and culture in Nijmegen continue to flourish.