The third and final instalment to our 2017 summer programme for young people launched with a bang – literally!
After an adventurous Animal Photography course that took us to Bristol Zoo Gardens and the activities of Tech on the Table, featuring a walking, talking robot courtesy of At-Bristol, the Hack a Musical Instrument workshop included making instruments from scratch, composing songs, and a live performance to mark the launch of Luke Jerram’s Play Me, I’m Yours project. Over the course of two days, young people and adults came together to enjoy the unifying power of music.
With excitement high, we welcomed a band of young people ready to bring some tunes to the surrounding area…Project Manager Dot began the session and introduced those who would be volunteering and lending a musical hand. After a few “icebreakers” it was time to start building instruments. The activity saw rainmakers made of tubes with rice and pasta inside, maracas and even a full drum set put together with plastic tubes and old vinyl records.
The day got even more lively when Adam Amer from Chango World came to deliver an upbeat drumming session with the group. Chango World aim to deliver engaging, memorable and accessible musical experiences to a diverse range of people and their time with us didn’t disappoint.
Having laid a solid foundation of music on Day One, the second day took things a step further with an introduction to song composition. The young people created their own recordings using the music production app Logic.
Decorating the set for the Play Me I’m Yours launch was next, which included hanging decorated vinyls around the outdoor piano and setting up their proudly self-made instruments in preparation to play to parents, KWMC staff and a host of other keen listeners.
Showtime came just after 4pm when BBC Points West came along to film the first pianists using the piano. The young people performed alongside pianist Nick Bignall – and were featured on the 6pm news programme!
In just two days the young people successfully built instruments, created songs and even performed live. All of the young people who gave feedback said they would “definitely recommend KWMC to a friend”. We hope to see them – and you! – next term when our after-school sessions start up again.
Visit the Jump Studios page for more details.
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