Families know the value of playing a musical instrument - they also know this can be unaffordable. This afterschool programme at the Woodgate Centre is both accessible and offers amazing opportunities. No Bars_Orchestra has already performed at both Curve Theatre and DeMontfort Hall and we are working closely with the Leicester Synphny Orchestra to create new progression routes in the city for young musicians. Generations of young musicians have benefitted from the community music culture which Woodgate Resources Centre has developed over the last 20 years. Drum and Brass is working with a team of committed musicians to put on afterschool clubs which will take young people and their families on a musical journey. With your help we will provide a safe place for young people to develop skills and open doors to exciting futures.

What we'll deliver:

• Expert music facilitators will deliver 91 sessions of percussion, guitar, singing, orchestra and instrument-making
• Woodgate's young musicians will perform together at Curve at Christmas
• We will upgrade the entry system at Woodgate Resoucres Centre with a buzzer and intercom
• We will purchase 20 new instruments for use by young people at Woodgate Resoures Centre

Why it's a great idea:

Children develop self-esteem and grow their wellbeing in a safe, creative environment Children work together to create and perform music Families meet each other at pick up Families gain pride when they see children perform at concerts

Steps to get it done:

• A safety buzzer/intercom system is fitted to Woodgate Resources Centre
• Instruments purchased
• Staff recruited
• Sessions fully booked
• Celebratory performance at the end of term

Drum and Brass is committed to Doing Music Differently. For 20 years, Woodgate Resources Centre has been providing affordable music lessons to families on low incomes. Increasing pressures on families working in low-paid jobs mean they need activities for children that allow them more flexibility. The afterschool club approach will also help address the issues of the lack of diversity within classical music. These issues were starkly revealed at Drum and Brass' conference on music and inclusion at the Curve Theatre in March 2022. where community music-making groups from LE1, LE2 and LE3 met with local and national music influencers and speakers. Young people and families needs were not being met by the traditional expectations of orchestras and music teachers. The No Bars_Orchestra and the other music activities we run at Woodgate Resources Centre in Frog Island will break down barriers and bring new energy to music-making.