On Thursday 18 January, young musicians from three local primary schools are set to take to the stage at Barnsley Civic.
Playing with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band will explore the story of Kim the Canary. 11 pieces reveal how Kim discovers the exciting underground world of the Grimethorpe mines, complete with noise, trains, explosions, and fun!
Helen Varley, solo horn of Grimethorpe Colliery Band, said: “We’ve been delighted to see how enthusiastically the children have engaged with this project. They have been fascinated to discover all about their local mining traditions, and as a result lots of the children have been speaking to parents and grandparents about their own coal mining links. We hope that it helps the children to develop a real affinity for their local heritage.
This is one of several outreach projects that the Grimethorpe Colliery Band is currently building with local schools and bands. We know that we need to support our local community to secure our long-term future, and we hope that the local community will respond by supporting us in return.”
Music Tutors from the Barnsley Council’s Music Service have been working with children from Carlton Primary School, Tankersley St Peters Primary School, and Birkwood Primary School to prepare for the event.
The students have been learning the piece and preparing to showcase their skills as part of their curriculum music lessons for the past few months. During this time, they have developed their skills, playing together as a whole class in preparation.
Councillor Robin Franklin, Barnsley Council’s Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “The collaboration between schools, Grimethorpe Colliery Band, the Barnsley Music Education Hub and Barnsley Civic has been an excellent opportunity to inspire children to the joy of music making. It’s an exciting opportunity to learn from talented musicians and explore our local heritage.
The passing down of skills and passion is a wonderful way to inspire a new generation of musicians to possibilities of creativity and working together.”
Performing at Barnsley Civic gives an exciting opportunity for the students to work together and show their talent to a live audience.
Anthony Baker, CEO at Barnsley Civic said: "The Grimethorpe Adventure is a wonderful collaboration that brings young musicians from local primary schools to the stage at Barnsley Civic. Thanks to Barnsley Council’s Music Service and Grimethorpe Colliery Band, these students have the opportunity to be involved in this exciting event. This initiative reflects the power of music in fostering creativity and building strong community connections."
Barnsley Music Service are the leading organisation of our local Music Hub and would like to thank Arts Council England for their continued support for our young people and schools across the borough. Their support alongside that of our partners, ensures music making is accessible and inclusive for all.
To get involved and find out more, visit Barnsley Music Service or email BarnsleyMusicService@barnsley.gov.uk.
