The Music Man Review of 2023!
2023 was transformational for our charity. Our role-model musicians conquered America, enthralled six UK cities on tour with the Royal Marines, performed in the most historic buildings of the land and astounded the Prime Minister, His Majesty the King, the Speaker of the House of Commons and the legendary Michael Ball. With the help of the […]
ORDER, ORDER!
UK Disability History Month showcases the story of disabled peoples’ historic struggle for equality and human rights. The Music Man Project was honoured to perform for the 2023 centrepiece event – a reception in Speaker’s House at the Houses of Parliament hosted by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle. Whether performing […]
An Emotional Freeman of the City!
On Thursday 20th May 2023, Southend Council bestowed on me the honour of Freeman of the City of Southend – the highest recognition a city can bequeath on an individual. As I entered the Council Chamber, I noticed only one name under the Freeman of the City heading: my friend and Music Man Project President, […]
An Extraordinary Workshop at 10 Downing Street
Just a few years ago, ‘SEND Music Workshop’ meant children with special needs receiving instruction from school music teachers, local music authorities or renowned orchestras running community outreach projects. The lucky children got to hold a bassoon, sing a song or listen to a virtuoso mainstream musician. Too often these workshops just showed what people […]
Disability and Access Ambassador for Arts and Culture: Year 2 Update (July 2022-June 2023)
In my second year as Disability and Access Ambassador for Arts and Culture, I continued to advocate for grass roots opportunities for disabled people as both creative artists and consumers. I consulted industry professionals, charity leaders, educators, politicians, Civil Servants and across all sections of the media. Since July 2021, I have attended 75 meetings, […]
Thank you, National Lottery!
As surprises go, receiving a special award from Musical Theatre legend, Michael Ball, in front of 12,000 people at the AO Arena, Manchester during the National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals is definitely up there! The BBC1 broadcast reached millions, giving my 23-year-long campaign for equal opportunities in the Arts for people with learning disabilities […]
A Standing Ovation from The King!
March 2022, Royal Albert Hall My wife and I sit comfortably in our box anticipating the start of the 2022 Mountbatten Festival of Music – the annual flagship concert by the Massed Bands of His Majesty’s Royal Marines. We’re guests of our new marketing partner, TEAM LEWIS Foundation. It is 5 months after Rt. Hon. […]