Frequency Finder: The SRC Music Dept Podcast

In this episode of Frequency Finder, we’re joined by acclaimed Irish songwriter and artist Ciaran Lavery for a deep dive into the craft and reality of writing songs that connect.
We begin at the very start of Ciaran’s journey, exploring where it all began, the influences that shaped him, and the moments that first pulled him into songwriting. From there, the conversation moves into the practical side of the creative process: how songs begin, whether through melody, lyrics, chords, or emotion, and how those early sparks grow into fully formed tracks.
Ciaran shares insight into his lyrical approach, the art of storytelling through song, and how he balances personal experience with universal meaning. We also explore the modern world of co-writing, discussing collaboration, creative chemistry, and what makes a great writing session.
The episode also looks at the journey from demo to production, including how rough ideas evolve, when to keep things simple, and how production choices can reshape a song without losing its heart.
Tune in for an honest, practical, and inspiring conversation with Ciaran Lavery.
https://ciaranlaverymusic.com

#IrishMusic #Songwriting #FolkMusic #MusicIndustry #FrequencyFinder #SRCPodcast

Recorded live at Output Belfast 2025
Frequency Finder heads to Output Belfast 2025 for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to survive and thrive in the Northern Ireland music industry.
Our panel features four brilliant voices from across the scene:
Matt Mimford (Forfey)

Matt Evans (Anna’s Number)

Matt Weir (Tuesday Club)

Amy Carson (Beat the Street)

Together, they dive into the realities of building a career in music — from late-night load-ins and last-minute invoices to the small victories that make it all worthwhile.
Whether you’re an artist, producer, manager, or student stepping into the industry, this episode is full of honesty, humour, and hard-won advice on how to sustain your music career in 2025.
Listen now and join the conversation!
SHOWNOTES
Matt Mimford — forfey.com
Matt Evans — annasnumber.com
Matt Weir — instagram.com/madweird/?hl=en
Amy Carson — thatswhatamydid.com
Tags: #OutputBelfast #NIMusic #MusicIndustry #FrequencyFinder #SRCPodcast #MusicCareers #NIArtists

Welcome back to Frequency Finder: The SRC Music Podcast – the space where we tune into the stories, sounds, and creators driving Northern Ireland’s music scene forward.

In this episode, host Amy Carson is joined by four boundary-pushing artists, each bringing their own unique flavour to the mix. From introspective songwriting to genre-blurring production, we dive deep into their latest releases and explore what fuels their creative process.
On the sofa this week:

Auldsy – songwriter and guitarist with a raw, authentic edge
Oran – cutting-edge producer from Discworld, blending beats and textures
Raine – emotive singer-songwriter with a voice that stays with you.
Dylan – the visionary force behind the STEVY SYLVA project

Get ready for an inspiring chat, some brilliant tunes, and maybe even your next favourite artist.

Shownotes
https://www.instagram.com/auldsy_
https://www.instagram.com/discwrld_/
https://www.instagram.com/stevy_sylva_offical/
https://www.instagram.com/raineisindie/?hl=en

Welcome to Frequency Finder: The SRC Music Podcast, your go-to space for stories, sounds, and conversations with the artists shaping Northern Ireland’s vibrant music scene.
In this episode, host Amy Carson sits down with four incredibly talented guests to uncover fresh sounds and future favourites. From brand-new releases to the creative spark behind each track, we take a deep dive into the songwriting and production process that brings these tunes to life.

On the sofa this week:
Aaron, frontman of The Davids
Northbound Rose’s captivating lead vocalistThe multi-talented singer-songwriter and creative force, Sárán
Whether you're a music lover, a fellow artist, or just curious about what's brewing locally – this one’s for you.
Shownotes
https://www.instagram.com/thedavidsband/
https://www.instagram.com/northboundbandofficial/
https://www.instagram.com/saranomachail/

In this episode of Frequency Finder: The SRC Podcast, we sit down with two of the sound world’s top professionals—Lee McMahon, front-of-house engineer for The 1975, Pale Waves, and Lizzy McAlpine, and Ian Vennard, Head of Sound and Light at the Lyric Theatre Belfast and award-winning theatre sound designer.
As Lee gears up for a huge summer headlining Glastonbury Festival with The 1975, and Ian wraps up a UK tour with The Shamrock Tenors, they share exclusive insights into their careers, creative workflows, and the tech behind the music.
With SRC students in the room as a live audience, we explore the fast-paced world of live and theatre sound, from arena gigs and world tours to critically acclaimed stage productions. Whether you're mixing on the desk or dreaming of your place in the industry, this episode is packed with advice and inspiration.

Subscribe & listen now!

SHOWNOTES
Lee McMahon - https://www.linearlive.co.uk
Ian Vennard - https://www.instagram.com/ianvennard
#The1975 #Glastonbury2025 #lyrictheatre #SoundEngineering #LiveSound #TheatreSound #MusicIndustry #FrequencyFinder #SRCPodcast