MMC #110 Report: When Education Sounds Like a Gig: The OCA Experience in Action.
The MMC on 18th of September wasn't just filled with music; it was charged with the nervous hum of dreams taking flight. Stepping into the Oxford Art Factory's Gallery Bar for the Music Makers Club #110 event, you could feel it - a raw, youthful energy that had less to do with a polished final product and everything to do with the glorious, messy process of creation and practice. This wasn't a sterile corporate showcase; it was a living, breathing testament to the ethos of the Oxford Creative Academy (OCA), where education is less about a final grade and more about the grit of the gig.
The most potent success of the night was the palpable sense of community. The room was a kaleidoscope of proud parents, lifelong friends, and fellow OCA students, all there to bear witness to a moment that transcended performance. It was a beautiful, chaotic act of mutual support. A standout example was Liam, a Music Production student whose soul lives in the pulsating world of electronic dance music. Yet, there he was, working the door for an indie rock night, a quiet but profound act of solidarity that spoke louder than any bass drop. He wasn't just helping an event; he was helping to build a culture.
And then, the music. House of Monkeys, fronted by Michelle, an OCA Music Production student, kicked off the night with their choose-your-own-adventure mix of avant-prog and art-pop, hinting at a future where, with dedication and focus, they could sit comfortably alongside the likes of Black Midi or Fiona Apple. Her ability to summon a crowd so early in the night was a key insight into her authentic connection to her community. They were followed by the expansive indie rock of Royalla, a band with strong echoes of The 1975 and includes Lincoln, an Entertainment Business student from OCA. Their professionalism and stage presence were a testament to their own journey, helping to retain the crowd gathered for House Of Monkeys.
Beyond the stage, the event was a masterclass in student engagement. Hayley returned as Event Coordinator, demonstrating a newfound efficiency and confidence from her previous work on Music Makers Club events. Her mentorship of new student team members was crucial to the night's smooth operation. Similarly, Matt evolved from running the door to becoming Production Coordinator, a significant step that underscored his growth. This night wasn't just a concert; it was a snapshot of a journey. For these young professionals, it was a moment where theory met practice, where the blueprints of their studies were transformed into a vibrant, profitable reality. The commercial success and the profit for the bands were the tangible proof, The first allocation of tickets sold out within three days, followed by the second within a fortnight. In total, 72 tickets were sold, reaching 60% of Gallery Bar's capacity. This not only covered all costs but also resulted in a profit of $185.25 for each band, but the lasting impression is the spark of community that was kindled. It's a fire they'll need to attend, not just as musicians and managers, but as the future architects of a more collaborative and courageous music industry in Australia.