A group of young people aged between 11 and 18 years old from The Bridge Centre in Lichfield took to the stage to perform at the Lichfield Garrick Theatre recently, as part of a celebration of their work with Make Some Noise.
The Bridge Centre is a school for both KS3 and KS4 students from across the Lichfield and Burntwood Districts who have experienced challenges within their educational settings as a result of emotional and behavioural difficulties.
We were delighted to be commissioned by The Bridge Centre as an external provider to work with its students once again, following our earlier work with similar short stay/Pupil Referral Units across the region. The Sound Proof project helps to encourage creativity and social development using innovative and engaging ways of music making.
Since the beginning of the year, highly experienced Make Some Noise Music Leaders and professional Musicians, Jonny Amos and James Stanley have been running weekly sessions with students using a variety of high quality, creative music technology methods to help build confidence, self-esteem, encourage team working and improve IT, communication and music skills. Methods included song writing, music interpretation, playing instruments, using technology devices such as the iPad and MacBooks to create their own tracks and performing.
Students have also had the opportunity to work towards and gain the nationally recognised Bronze Level Arts Award.
The celebration event brought together six of the young people, who took to the stage, some for the very first time to perform to parents and peers with a mix of solo performances and pieces accompanied by Jonny and James.
Jonny Amos, Professional Musician and Make Some Noise Music Leader said: “Working with these young people has been inspirational. During one of our workshops we experienced one of the most advanced jam sessions we’ve ever had in a school. It was more than a jam session – it was like a pre-production session in a studio. It was a clear sign of major progression. The performance at the Garrick Theatre was a true sign of both musical and social progression. The students worked hard to overcome their nerves and really put on a fantastically well-rehearsed set. It was the kind of day that will be remembered fondly for many years to come.”
Susan Kulas, Headteacher at The Bridge Centre added:
“Make Some Noise have been a truly inspirational opportunity for our students, many of whom have incredible talent, previously untapped. The chance to perform at a location such as the Garrick Theatre in Lichfield was a huge boost to their confidence and hopefully a step towards a future which is brighter. The Make Some Noise team have worked hard to develop skills both musically and personally within the students and we hope to continue our working relationship in years to come.
C, one of the young people taking part commented during one of the workshops: “I really want to record this song – it makes me so happy to know what we’ve done here today. “
