Music Workshop

The Tempest: We are exploring different songs relating to the theme of storms and weather.

Coronation: We have been exploring different music relating to Kings and Queens, and also exploring music relating to Royalty and different social structures in different cultures around the world.

Artmaker Festival: We have been writing songs based on the ideas evoked by ‘Walk in my Shoes’.

Toys at Christmas: Our Artmakers practice Christmas songs to perform at the Carol Concert and Christmas Fairs.

Weekly Structure: Each week, we follow a consistent yet flexible structure.

Physical Improvements: Creative activities, such as dancing, singing, playing musical instruments enhance physical fitness, coordination, and motor skills. For individuals with special needs, these activities also foster increased range of motion, flexibility, and strength.

Emotional Benefits: Our workshops provide a safe space for participants to explore and express emotions through music. This nurtures self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, anxiety and stress management, self-confidence, and a sense of community, positively impacting mental health and social interactions.

Mental Benefits: Musical activities stimulate cognitive processes like problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Improved communication skills, including active listening and verbal/nonverbal expression, further contribute to participants’ mental wellbeing. Longer-term projects foster a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

Enhanced Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Exploring various perspectives and emotions in music activities helps develop empathy and emotional intelligence, leading to better relationships and self-understanding.

Boosted Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills: Musical activities promote innovative thinking, which can be applied across different aspects of life.

Improved Communication Skills: Developing stronger verbal/nonverbal communication and active listening skills positively impacts participants’ self-expression and understanding of others.

Greater Sense of Community and Belonging: Musical activities promote feelings of community and belonging, which can be especially important for individuals feeling isolated or marginalized.

Mindfulness: Workshops encourage mindfulness by promoting presence in the moment and focusing on thoughts, feelings, and sensations. Musical activities help participants develop greater sensory awareness and a deeper connection to their surroundings.

Our drama workshop nurtures independent skills and social imagination that are transferable to various aspects of everyday life, such as employment, social interactions, and basic life skills:

Communication and Social Skills: Through musical performance and songwriting, participants enhance their communication and social skills, aiding them in situations like job interviews and community interactions.

Motor Coordination and Balance: Using a wide range of musical instruments helps develop co-ordination and fine motor skills. Dancing helps improve balance.

Makaton Signing: This communication system, which uses signs and symbols to support speech, is incorporated throughout the workshop, improving participants’ communication skills and self-expression.

Sensory Music Activities: Sensory exploration of instruments and equipment, as well as performances incorporating different sensory elements, foster participants’ environmental awareness and their ability to navigate it independently.

Special Project Work: By engaging in projects like creating and performing songs, following dance routines, or collaborating on group initiatives, participants develop teamwork, leadership, and project management skills that are applicable in various real-world contexts.

Imagination and Social Imagination: Drama activities stimulate participants’ imagination, allowing them to explore new perspectives and scenarios. This nurtures social imagination, which involves understanding and empathising with others’ experiences and emotions, leading to improved social interactions and relationships.

In our drama workshop, we use a range of communication methods to help everyone engage and express themselves:

Verbal communication: Encouraging talking or singing to build confidence and communication skills.

Makaton: Using signs, gestures, and symbols alongside speech to support communication in various workshop activities.

Gesture-based communication: Including simple hand signals or facial expressions to help participants understand each other.

Picture-based communication: Using Widgit and Makaton picture symbols for those who find verbal communication challenging.

Body language and movement: Employing physical techniques to support self-expression, coordination, and expression.

Tactile communication: Offering tactile experiences with textured materials, objects, or props for those with sensory processing challenges.

Written communication: Giving participants opportunities to write or draw, particularly for those who struggle with speaking.

Participants in the workshop have a variety of positive experiences, with many of them expressing a love for singing, dancing and playing instruments. They particularly enjoy engaging in musical activities, incorporating music, and appreciate the opportunity to share thoughts and feelings through Makaton signs.

Many participants highlight their favourite activities, such as rehearsing for the Artmaker Festival, exploring who they are, and learning Makaton. They value the chance to develop their confidence, independence, and communication skills. Furthermore, participants feel that the skills they gain in the workshop positively impact their everyday lives, allowing them to be more adventurous, enhance communication, and boost self-esteem.

Participants enjoy working with each other, expressing that they feel like part of a unique, supportive family. They cherish the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, make friends, and share their knowledge with others. The inclusive environment, characterised by warmth and dignity, fosters emotional growth and connection.

Overall, participants would recommend the workshop to others, citing the fun, empowering, and supportive atmosphere it provides. They appreciate the chance to share their feelings, explore their creative abilities, and develop a sense of community with their peers.

Our music workshop goes beyond offering a fun and engaging experience for participants; it fosters an inclusive environment that promotes learning and growth for everyone involved.

We’ve provided work and performance opportunities for our Artmakers at local professional theatres, community festivals, and collaborated with Arts Council-funded organisations like Moondust Theatre.

Our dedicated team works passionately to engage both staff and participants in the sessions, creating an atmosphere where everyone learns and grows together. By focusing on the social model of disability, we strive to remove barriers and establish an inclusive environment where everyone can participate and thrive.

We empower participants and staff using signing, enabling effective communication, and fostering relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, we’ve raised funds to provide staff and Makers and Musicians with Level 1 Makaton training.

Our workshop not only delivers an enjoyable experience but also fosters a comprehensive, inclusive environment that supports the personal and professional growth of all individuals involved.