A new music charity for Cornwall... get on board !
BACKGROUND
The idea for Bandwagon evolved as a result of trying to overcome the many unique social issues faced by the vulnerable, disabled and isolated across Cornwall. We began by offering individual music sessions to provide an informal introduction to music, injecting some much needed fun into peoples lives. As time went by, we began to expand our range of services and utilise advanced/innovative music technology to help make the experience more impactful and accessible, resulting in a more beneficial outcome for participants.
Things changed for everyone in March 2020 with the arrival of the COVID pandemic and the beginning of several lock-downs until early 2021. This was a traumatic and distressing time for everyone, but for vulnerable people, or those with a disability, the impact was far greater, and the after affects long lasting. As a result, we decided that now was the right time to launch Bandwagon.
As a registered charity we can now dramatically increase the number of people we help across the whole of Cornwall. A unique aspect of our charity is the fact that our services are mobile, taking music to the people who need us by hiring village halls or community centres and offering sessions at existing day centres or residential homes.
MUSIC PROJECTS
Bandwagon offers a series of innovative music based activities and projects delivered directly to those in need wherever they are in Cornwall. Our music sessions, which have been developed and refined over the last ten years, have been specifically designed to help and empower participants to face and overcome their individual challenges.
Our main projects are…
‘Sound Safari’
We make every session an adventure, taking participants on an exciting musical journey, discovering the many amazing ways they can use the very latest technological equipment to make sounds and music.
'Song Sandwich'
A pioneering new project which encompasses all aspects of song production from developing the initial concept, writing lyrics, then through to performing and filming a final music video.
'Club Sandwich'
Designed to give clients a sociable fun packed clubbing style event where everyone can enjoy multiple activities such as dancing, singing, Djing and filming using technology for a fully immersive experience.
All Bandwagon projects and sessions will be run by experienced musicians with help from support workers who are either carers or parents. A huge amount of planning and consultation goes in to each activity to ensure every participant, regardless of issue, have the correct level of support and therefore enjoy the maximum benefit, unlocking their true creative potential.
We focus on the process of ‘creation’ rather than the final product. This allows for a pressure free experience and enables participants to better understand how they use and manage their imagination, feelings and emotions.
Each session is sympathetically structured to promote teamwork and develop empathic relationships within the group. This is strongly encouraged and often results in participants teaching and helping each other and ultimately creating an even greater sense of achievement and self esteem for those involved.
sound safari
An innovative multi sensory experience created for all ages and abilities, designed as an introduction to making music and experimenting with sound, supported by the very latest technology. These sessions are often people’s first taste of playing music and therefore by making it a fun and memorable experience, we remove their fears and inhibitions, opening them up to exploring their creativity. There is a wide range of accessible equipment available at all sessions which can be adapted to meet their multi sensory requirements.
SONG SANDWICH
We created these group session to allow for sociable group work, yet also individual creativity. Delivered over two sessions, participants are split into two groups, where they take turns to develop ideas for a song, write lyrics and create the music. We then bring them all together to perform the song and film a music video. These sessions involve a variety of accessible equipment, to include multi sensory technology, acoustic instruments, computers, cameras, green screen and various fun props. They all then get to watch this video once it has been edited. We take "song sandwich" out to residential homes, day centres and also village halls in remote communities, to engage with a wide variety of groups such as those with learning difficulties, visual and hearing impairments, mental health challenges, physical disabilities, neuro diversities and those who are socially deprived.
The main objective of "song sandwich" is to use music to achieve a wide range of benefits and results within a single project, as it encompasses many different disciplines and activities, allowing for participants to build their self esteem and confidence, enriching their lives in a fun, social way.
the power of music
Music has a truly transformative power. Especially, bringing people together, lifting their spirits, and improving their quality of life. It can also be a source of comfort, joy and motivation, providing a much needed escape from the challenges and limitations of everyday life and help people to connect with others and the world around them, alleviating social isolation.
Music is a great leveller and often the challenges people face are forgotten when taking part in one of our sessions. Whether it is singing, playing an instrument or performing as a group, music builds connections. It can ignite imagination, develop confidence, build self esteem and promote a sense of belonging through encouragement and camaraderie.
Music has the power to improve lives. It provides a platform for advancing skills, wellbeing, and at the same time encourages a strong desire to achieve - which forms the basis for future success and fulfilment. Because musical participation and response does not depend solely on the ability to speak, music is a particularly effective clinical intervention for people who have difficulty communicating.
For people affected by disability, illness or injury, working with music can be life-changing. For example, people with autism can develop emotional, social and communication skills; someone with an acquired brain injury can be helped to regain their speech; a person with dementia, frightened and confused by isolation, can reconnect with memories and share them through the powerful and evocative nature of music.
INCREASES COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Music can be incredibly beneficial as it can help to improve communication skills. Participating in musical activities requires the use of various forms of communication, such as non-verbal cues and gestures, which can help to build confidence and develop social skills. Additionally, singing and playing instruments can provide a means of self-expression, enabling individuals with disabilities to communicate their emotions and thoughts, sometimes in ways that they are unable to without music. It provides a fun and creative outlet to develop and improve communication skills.
IMPROVES MOOD AND EMOTIONS
Well-designed music sessions for people with disabilities and mental health issues have been shown to have a positive impact on mood and emotional regulation. Listening to music, singing, and playing instruments can release endorphins in the brain that lead to feelings of happiness and well-being. Additionally, participating in music activities can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem, leading to improved mood. Through these mechanisms, music programmes can provide a powerful tool for promoting emotional well-being.
ENHANCES COGNITIVE FUNCTIONING
Music has been shown to enhance cognitive functioning in people with disabilities. For example, research has shown that playing an instrument can improve memory, attention, and overall cognitive skills. It can also help individuals to develop language, social, emotional, as well as fine motor skills. Additionally, musical activities can provide an outlet for self-expression and improvement to self-esteem and confidence. This, in turn, can lead to greater independence and a better quality of life.
BOOSTS PHYSICAL ABILITIES
By engaging in musical activities, individuals with disabilities can improve their coordination, fine motor skills, and balance. Playing an instrument or singing requires movements that can help to build strength and dexterity, which can be especially beneficial for those with physical disabilities. Furthermore, music programs can provide fun and engaging physical activity, which can help to increase physical activity levels and improve overall health and fitness.
PROMOTES SELF EXPRESSION AND CREATIVITY
Music activities for people with disabilities and mental health issues should include opportunities for self-expression. Through music, anyone can communicate their feelings, emotions, and experiences in a creative and engaging way. This can be particularly important for individuals who may struggle to express themselves verbally or through traditional forms of communication. Participating in music activities can develop a sense of pride and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, it can also be used as a therapeutic tool to help manage stress, anxiety, and depression. Music’s repetitive and structured nature can also be beneficial for individuals with cognitive and sensory processing challenges, helping to improve their focus, memory, and coordination. Overall, music offers people with disabilities an enjoyable and meaningful way to express themselves, connect with others, and improve their
well-being.
IMPROVES SOCIAL SKILLS
Participating in music sessions encourages individuals to engage in group activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging. This can lead to better communication and teamwork skills, as well as an increase in self-confidence and self-esteem. Furthermore, it can also provide opportunities for individuals to develop relationships and make new friends, leading to increased socialisation and a wider support network. Music can also provide a fun and enjoyable activity that individuals can look forward to, which can lead to improved mood and a more positive outlook on life. By offering a creative outlet for individuals with disabilities and mental health issues, music programmes can play a significant role in improving their social skills and overall quality of life.
ACCESSIBILITY
Music is an accessible form of therapy. Firstly, music is a universal language that can help individuals with communication difficulties to express themselves and connect with others. In addition, music engages multiple areas of the brain, helping to improve cognitive and motor skills. For those with physical disabilities, playing an instrument or participating in a music programme can help to develop fine motor skills and coordination. Furthermore, it has been shown to have a therapeutic effect on emotions, helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels and lift mood. People who are reluctant to engage in other forms of therapy do not necessarily categorise music with those other forms. Music, and its close relation, art, can often be seen as far more pleasurable than many other modes of therapy. All in all, music can play a crucial role in the lives of people with disabilities, providing them with opportunities for self-expression, emotional regulation, and social connection.well-being.
Help Our Cause
Your generous donation will fund our valuable work and benefit the many people in Cornwall who are in need.
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