Tabz Lee works at The Hive, an all ages venue at the Fortitude Valley PCYC. Tabz is about to enter into year 12 at Music Industry College. She gives us an insight into her work and what she loves about music and Brisbane.

What do you do, why did you choose to go down that path, and what do you love about it?
I help run an all ages music venue in Fortitude Valley called The Hive.

I chose to go down this path because I have always loved music, and plan to be a venue manger when I’m older. I like this career because I get to combine my two favourite things: business, and music.

I love being able to get a wide range of real life experience working for The Hive, including bookings, sound tech, stage management, and photography and film. As well as being able to see and work with some rad bands.
What are you currently working on project-wise?
Currently we’re working on making The Hive bigger and better next year, by updating equipment and training new staff. As well creating a website and booking both local and national artists.
What would you say led you to where you are today? Eg background, achievements, inspiration?
My parents have influenced me a lot with the business side of things, with both of them running their own business. Also in my early high school years I had a great guitar teacher as well as a great business teacher, both of which always pushed me and encouraged me to achieve my best. In year 11 I begun attending Music Industry College which helped me significatly by giving me a huge head start in my career. The Hive is also run by the school, which is how I began working there.
What do you get up to in your down time? Do you have any hobbies?
My down time is just mostly listening to music. I am really into hardcore, especially Parkway Drive, Northlane, Midnight in Alaska and Prepared Like A Bride. I don’t really have any main hobbies, but I skate, play soccer, and do motocross when I get the chance.
What’s it like being a young person in Brisbane? What suggestions would you make to improve the city?
It’s pretty good being a young person because there is generally a lot to do, especially in the inner city area. All though the music scene isn’t the best, its still great compared to a lot of other places.

The only great down fall is the it isn’t the best city for all ages music.
What advice or inspiration would you share with other young people?
I would encourage other young people to get involved in the music scene. Even though a lot of parents think it’s dangerous to go out to events, it is actually supporting creativity and music in our city. It’s really hard for musicians to make a living, so by us going out and supporting them.

A lot of all ages venues in Brisbane are safe spaces and drug & alcohol free. The Hive is a really good example of this. We have a policy against discrimination, we have security, and we keep prices really cheap so that young people can get involved. We also give kids a good chance to get involved by offering work experience to school students.

If you want to come into The Hive we would show you how to do some of the event management tasks we do at The Hive including basic sound production, security, door sheet and management, and just giving you a feel of what The Hive is about.

Interested in learning more about The Hive? 

Get in touch via their Facebook page:  http://www.facebook.com/livethehive

Or email them now: liveatthehive@live.com.au