Future of Old Chapel Music Studios where Kaiser Chiefs started out is under threat and fundraising campaign has launched to help

The group still call the Old Chapel home to this day, with a permanent space on site for writing and recording. But the future of the music and community hub in Holbeck, where the likes of The Pigeon Detectives and Embrace also started out, is now in doubt.

“We’ve had crisis talks,” admits Katie Hayes, CEO of Old Chapel Music Community Interest Company. The CIC has launched its first ever Crowdfunder campaign, aiming to raise £9,000 to support it into 2024.

Its future, Katie says, has been challenged by rising rent and the cost-of-living crisis, leaving dozens of partnerships, community programs and staff hanging in the balance.

“There is so much that Old Chapel has given to Leeds and the businesses of Leeds, the community of Leeds and I guess what we’re saying now is hey, we’ve always given, we’ve never asked, and we’ve managed to succeed but sadly it’s got to this point,” Katie says.

“We feel quite embarrassed. This (asking for support) doesn’t sit comfortably with us, at a time when everyone is struggling, but needs must and we know how important this is.“

Old Chapel has been at its home on Czar Street for 30 years. A “one stop shop” for rehearsal, writing, recording, repairs and advice, it has supported countless amateur bands, disabled musicians and people who use music as therapy for their mental health.

Gordon White, guitar tech for the likes of Richard Hawley and Noel Gallagher, runs his business Single Coil Guitar Repairs from a workshop space in Old Chapel’s newest wing, whilst weekly music clubs hosted in rehearsal rooms bring disadvantaged members of the community together in music.

"We are not just a rehearsal and recording studio, we are so much more than this,” Katie says. “And I want to see the future, that we have planned for, continue and flourish for years to come.”

After coming through “the storm” of the Covid-19 pandemic “with hard work and ingenuity”, the CIC is exploring options such as new partners, investments and funding bids. But those processes take time and Old Chapel’s current cost burdens “threaten to dim the light” of its future.

The funding target, it says, will fill its budget hole, enabling it to continue its programme of offerings.

"Next year, we hope to be in a stronger position,” Katie explains. “But this (cash) now will give us a leg up and keep the wolf away from the door.”

The Crowdfunder campaign is open until August 17, but Old Chapel is also accepting direct donations at the studios and via PayPal on their website oldchapelleeds.org