Leading arts NGO Bayimba Cultural foundation is currently training over 25 established and upcoming artistes in what appears as an effort to turn them into wholesome musicians.

Dubbed 'Practical Musician', the two-week training workshop which will climax on November 22 is focusing on developing a range of skills among artistes, including singing, instrumentation, music production and promotion, stage performance, talent management and several other aspects of the music industry.

"We want to empower you to become creative and practical musicians so you can take full control of your music," Bayimba's education department head Rosette Nteyafas told participants during one of the sessions held at city-based K'angiez restaurant.

According to Nteyafas, a practical musician is one who does not only stop at singing but also goes ahead to take charge of other steps of music production. And clearly, we don't have many of those in Uganda, perhaps the reason why the training, now in its third edition since its inception late last year, is increasingly becoming popular among even the established artistes.

This year's edition has attracted celebrated acts including Tamba and Rehemah [vocalists], Sylvester, Slim Emcee, Lady Slyke and Burny Emcee (rappers) plus scores of equally talented upcoming artistes and instrumentalists.

Renowned musician Kaz Kasozi is the workshop's chief facilitator, assisted by the likes of Moses Matovu (Afrigo band), Anita Assasira (music lecturer) and Annet Nandujja (cultural singer) plus scores of other music gurus whose practical approach has excited participants.

"We have so far attended several concerts across town where we get hands-on knowledge about stage performances," said Gerald Mbuya, a budding drummer and one of the participants.