Young musicians return to making music together

West Sussex Music’s music groups and centres have returned this week after being shut for more than a year as a result of the pandemic.

The group is now encouraging any young person aged up to 18 who plays an instrument  to go along for a free taster session to play in a music
group with other young people.

A member of Haywards Heath Youth Orchestra said “The music centre is a great opportunity to see and play with other musicians. I really enjoy playing with other people and I learn new skills like, not just playing my part, but listening and fitting in with the group and I definitely wouldn’t have been able to learn from just my violin lessons alone. It’s a lot of fun and it definitely will help you get better with music!"

David Bennet, Head of Music Centres at West Sussex Music says: “It’s been a tough time for young people in the last year. And for many young people, music is vital to their mental health. We all know from our own experiences that music can help us relax, or uplift us and it can be an important part of our self-expression and identity. Research has also shown that it has health benefits, releasing ‘feel good’ hormones, improving mindset and motivation, helping with anxiety and boosting the immune system. And group music making has all the additional benefits that come from being in a community of like-minded people.

The groups take place at Chichester High School; Northgate Primary School, Crawley; Oathall Community College, Hayward’s Heath; The College of Richard Collyer, Horsham; Bohunt School, Worthing. The groups on offer include choirs, big bands, string orchestras and concert bands. You
needn’t have played an instrument for long: there are groups for musicians who have completed their first grade, Grade 1. A consultation with young people about what groups they’d like to see offered will be happening soon and it is anticipated that new groups will begin in the Autumn.

Any young musicians interested in taking part can visit the website, find out about the different music groups on offer, and book a free taster session or simply turn up to the music group of their choice. Following a free session, membership is £30 for June and July.

For more information and to book visit: https://www.westsussexmusic.co.uk/make-music/groups-and-ensembles/

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