Sutton Music Trust (SMT) works in partnership with a variety of external organisations to provide opportunities for young people to perform and develop their musical skills.
On Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July, students from SMT and the Purcell School took part in the “Hear and Now” project – an intergenerational music workshop hosted by the Philharmonia Orchestra and supported by Arts for Dementia. This weekend celebrated the 15th anniversary of the “Hear and Now” project and marked its first ever session in London.
Through a series of workshops led by composer Tim Steiner, participants contributed spoken and musical ideas to evoke emotions, movement, and memories. This provided a therapeutic element for over 20 participants living with dementia, and their carers and companions.
The programme had the theme of “London”, and involved sharing memories of the city, along with composing an original song as a group. This was performed as part of the sharing performance on Sunday. Participants also performed some well-known pieces such as sections of Dvorak’s 9th Symphony, and the Sabre Dance.
This 2-day workshop has given me the opportunity to experience playing and creating music with a diverse group. Being surrounded by musical experts with many years of experience, people my own age, and people who just enjoy music, gives the music we create different perspectives.
Participants from Arts for Dementia also shared their musical memories and performances – including Arnold, who played a solo on his harmonica, whilst sharing his memories of shopping for the instrument with his family at 4 years old!
