There is a unique alchemy at work inside the hallowed halls of The Bunker on Stockton Road. For more than 40 years, this legendary music hub has been at the heart of Sunderland’s music scene. While its walls have echoed with the sounds of punk pioneers and local heroes alike, some of its most important work is happening today through a new generation of young musicians picking up instruments for the very first time.
At the centre of this creative revival is The Bunker’s Band Club, a weekly initiative for young people aged 10 to 19. Its mission is simple: remove financial barriers, provide professional-quality equipment and create a welcoming, judgement-free environment where young people can learn, write and perform alongside experienced musicians.
Band Club gives aspiring artists their first opportunities to perform live through regular showcase events at The Bunker and other local venues, including Independent and Pop Recs. Participants also gain valuable behind-the-scenes experience, learning everything from recording music to organising and promoting independent gigs, with support from The Bunker’s experienced tutors.
The results are impressive. What often begins as a group of teenagers learning a few chords soon develops into confident performers writing and performing original material. Acts including Catch the Rabbit and Antiquity have gone on to perform across the region, while The Cherribos featured during BBC Radio 1’s takeover of The Bunker. More recently, Band Club graduates Trivia released their debut EP after signing with Serial Bowl Records and secured festival appearances at Mamapalooza and Ripples.
For Kenny Sanger and the team, however, success is measured by far more than festival bookings or record deals: “When you see a young person walk through the door nervous, shy and unsure of themselves, then six months later they’re standing on stage performing their own songs, that’s what makes this work special. Every week we watch friendships form, confidence grow and young people discover talents they didn’t know they had. We’re proud of every single one of them.”
That sense of belonging lies at the heart of everything The Bunker does. It offers a safe, creative space where confidence can flourish and lasting friendships are formed. Whether participants dream of careers in music or simply want somewhere they feel accepted, Band Club provides opportunities that extend far beyond the rehearsal room, helping shape the future of Wearside’s music scene one young musician at a time.
For further information, head to bunkeruk.com.
