Supporting aspiring singers, songwriters, and poets from within the Armed Forces community, Talent in the Ranks artists work alongside our experts to develop their skills, build confidence, and share their unique lived experiences.
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Laura Kelly, a Talent in the Ranks artist, shares more about participtating in the 2024 programme.
"Talent in the Ranks has been the most incredible journey. With a gentle nudge from a great friend, I entered the process full of nerves and doubting whether I was good enough. I started as the girl who, in week one, was too scared to sing and played a recording instead. But by the end, I stood proudly in front of thousands at a remembrance service, singing with confidence I never knew I had. It was beyond my wildest dreams.
This programme provided the safest space to be vulnerable, to express ourselves authentically, and to create art from the things we once carried in silence. It found me at a pivotal moment in my life—when I was struggling with my past and unable to see a clear future. Through Talent in the Ranks, I found confidence, empowerment, and healing. It gave me the courage to speak, embrace my story, and to reconnect with the little girl who loved singing with her dad.
More than anything, I realized that what made me love singing so much was that, back then, that little girl believed in herself as much as her dad believed in her. Thanks to Rachel, Dan, Aliyah, Black Voices, and everyone at Grosvenor Road Studios, you’ve brought that little girl’s sparkle back. You’ve not only transformed my voice but also every aspect of my life and I will always be so grateful."
Laura Kelly, Talent in the Ranks 2024
Whether you have previous experience or not, there is something for everyone. Working with National Memorial Arboretum Associate Artists, the award-winning Black Voices, and Poet Dan Simpson, you will be guided through your creative process and journey.
We want to create a space where you can recall or write songs that share some insight into your life and experiences. We will support you to create new arrangements that will frame your stories and also work with you to present and record the songs at the famous Grosvenor Road Studios in Birmingham.
The songs will be shared in a live performance during Armed Forces Weekend (28 / 29 June) at the Arboretum, and you will also have your work professionally recorded as a keepsake.
To commit to the project you must be able to attend all of the following sessions, which will be held at the Arboretum, unless otherwise indiciated.
Anyone who is a member of the Armed Forces family including people who are currently serving, or have served, their families and dependants.
Register your interest in joining this year's programme by Friday 28 March. To register your interest please email Rasmith@thenma.org.uk with the title Talent in the Ranks. Please include a few words about you and why you would like to get involved and a contact telephone number, so that we can arrange a call back
