York will come alive with the sound of young voices and vibrant instruments this summer – as Richard Shephard Music Foundation (RSMF) hosts its annual Make Music Day at York St John University.
This event brings together over 400 primary school children from across the region to celebrate and take part in a wide variety of music on Wednesday 24 June.
And this year’s event is set to be the most exciting yet, featuring a programme of diverse
workshops from world-class musicians and performers.
Workshops include:
- Opera North’s Mini Magic Flute workshop – a whistlestop tour of Mozart’s
famous opera, incorporating a trio of opera singers and an accordionist - An interactive concert from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s LEAP
ensemble, inviting children to learn about orchestral ensembles through a
multi-genre performance - A workshop incorporating physical theatre, movement and improvised
soundscapes based on Philip Pullman’s The Firework-Maker’s Daughter
– devised and delivered by award-winning theatre company Next Door But One - An ensemble performance workshop from our schools programme partner Sing
Education Ltd, giving pupils from different schools the opportunity to come
together to build an ensemble and showcase their musical skills and knowledge - A workshop exploring Indian Ragas as ‘musical moods’ with Indian cultural
practitioners. - Japanese drumming workshop with Tengu Taiko Drummers
- Gospel singing workshop with musician Mellonie Page
- A composition workshop with music students from York St John University
The team at RSMF believe that creative partnerships between schools, funders, charities, and musicians can transform musical opportunities in the York and North Yorkshire region.
Since the Foundation was established in memory of composer Dr Richard Shephard in 2021, over 10,000 children have received weekly subsidised music lessons and 16 music specialists
have been recruited to work in schools.
Cathy Grant from the Foundation said: “What’s so special is seeing the difference this
work is making every single week in classrooms. Children are singing, performing, picking up instruments, composing together, building confidence… and in many cases discovering something they didn’t know they had in them.
“And the impact is really clear. As well as the overall standard of music improving, we’re seeing children honing their communication and collaboration skills.
“I’m convinced this programme is supporting children’s wellbeing and helping to broaden their aspirations.”
Find out more about the RSMF and Make Music Day at their website here.
