‘Any Dream Will Do’ for our Wendy and the incredible Lee Mead
Several years ago, Music Man Project UK Student Ambassador, Wendy “Woo” attended class wearing a multi-coloured jumper. We joked that she looked like Joseph and we all sang ‘Any ‘Woo’ Will Do’, much to her delight and amusement. We have sung Wendy the same song every week ever since. It is always a moment of […]
My Video for the United Nations in New York
In November 2019 I travelled to New York to learn about music education and performance for people with learning disabilities in America. I visited charities, special schools, performance venues, churches, the British Consulate and Ellis Island. I taught at Salvation Army care homes, played for the homeless on Thanksgiving and even attended a concert by […]
A National Plan for Music Education to help children and young people with SEND thrive
Last year I was invited to join a panel of advisors to help the Government produce their new National Plan for Music Education (NPME). It was an excellent opportunity to raise standards in music education for all children, but especially those with special educational needs and disabilities. The work has become an integral part of […]
Disability & Access Ambassador (Arts/Culture) Year One Update
In my first year as Disability and Access Ambassador for Arts and Culture I promoted grass roots opportunities for disabled people as both creative artists and consumers. My particular focus was on adults with learning disabilities who are traditionally the last to achieve equal access and inclusion. Most cannot speak up for themselves so struggle […]
Next steps for the SEND Music Curriculum in England
I was recently invited to deliver a Keynote Address at the Westminster Education Forum policy conference. The conference was entitled “Next steps for the Music Curriculum in England and implementation of the new National Plan”. It was an opportunity to explain the rationale behind my work on the refreshed National Plan for Music Education. My […]
A Salvation Army Festive Return to the Royal Albert Hall
Two and a half years after their acclaimed debut at Britain’s most iconic concert venue, students from The Music Man Project returned to the Royal Albert Hall last December as special guests in the Salvation Army’s annual carol concert. Instead of 200 musicians with learning disabilities supported by symphony orchestra, this performance featured the famous […]
Southend bids to become a city!!
As part of Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, UK towns will be granted city status for the first time in 10 years. I was delighted to attend the official launch of the Southend-on-Sea bid, which is being spear-headed by Music Man Project President, Sir David Amess MP. Sir David has tirelessly promoted […]