National Lottery Grant for The Music Man Project Jackdaws

We are thrilled to receive a major grand from The National Lottery Community Fund to launch The Music Man Project Jackdaws.

The Music Man Project Jackdaws is a new music group for young adults with learning disabilities. It is being delivered n partnership with The Music Man Project, a nationally acclaimed charity that teaches children and adults with learning disabilities to sing, sign and play music. The partnership brings access to an award-winning programme, extensive teaching resources and ongoing support, as well as opportunities to participate in prestigious performances, including The Music Man Project‘s celebrated biennial concerts at the Royal Albert Hall.

We’re delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way. Alongside additional support from Somerset Community Foundation and the Radcliffe Charitable Trust, this funding enables us to build on the experience and expertise we have developed through our work in SEND settings with children and young people and extend that support to young adults. The project will provide a structured, creative and welcoming space where participants can continue to develop skills, build confidence and enjoy meaningful social connections through music.

—Saffron van Zwanenberg, Artistic Director of Jackdaws

Recruiting Now!

Launching in September the group will meet every Wednesday during term time from 11am to 2pm at the Jackdaws Lehane-Wishart Studio in Great Elm. Led by Kate Adams, participants will enjoy making music together through singing, signing and instrumental performance using The Music Man Project’s award-winning approach, the sessions will include plenty of social time for building friendships.

The sessions are designed to provide a welcoming and supportive environment where young adults can develop musical and social skills, make new friends, build confidence and, most importantly, have fun. Set within the inspiring surroundings of the Jackdaws studio, the programme will offer a regular opportunity for participants to connect, create and thrive.

“We would like to thank National Lottery players for making this project possible, and Somerset Community Foundation for their valued support. It is so important that young people with learning disabilities have opportunities to continue making music as they move beyond school and into adulthood. We are now recruiting young adults to join the group and would love to hear from anyone interested in taking part.”

—Kate Adams, Education Officer at Jackdaws

For more information about joining The Music Man Project Jackdaws, please contact music@jackdaws.org or click below for more information:

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