Big Band SOS

The Big Band SOS was an opportunity for local musicians aged 19 and under to form a Concert Band from scratch, learn some new repertoire and then perform a charity concert, all in just three days. This project was at no cost to participants (with lunch and snacks provided free of charge as well as all music tuition). It comprised 48 young musicians from 15 different schools (including Wrekin). Players ranged from Grade 2 level to beyond Grade 8, on a myriad of concert band instruments. Proceeds from concert ticket sales went to three charities, Zarach which provides beds for children around the country, Little Stars Baby Bank which supports young lives in Shropshire and the Cavalier Centre in Much Wenlock which helps children with physical and/or learning disabilities to ride for therapy, achievement and fun. The event was funded by the Wrekin College Foundation.

Aims

To bring together the musically talented youngsters that have, in a number of schools, gained national recognition for a number of years, from Telford and Wrekin (and beyond). Give them three days of expert music tuition and unite them in a full two hour concert. The project was not only free of charge for the musicians but raised money for other young people less fortunate than themselves.

To allow young musicians to experience the joy of learning new music and experience playing with other young musicians from all ages and backgrounds.

Background

The Big Band SOS took place in July 2023 and was the idea of Wrekin’s Director of Music, Simon Platford MBE. He wanted to bring together local musicians from across the Midlands to learn new music in just three days, and perform in a concert, in turn raising money for charity.

Resources

Facilities:

·      Music School

·      Dining Room

·      Chapel (for concert rehearsals and final concert)

Staffing commitment:

·      Advertise / visit schools and encourage participants prior to event. This Included three Interviews on local radio.

·      Advertise, publicise and operate final concert

·      Organise and provide all catering (lunch and snacks)

·      Prepare the sets of music for all of the performers

·      Music tuition and participation in concert

·      Organise, supervise, oversee and run whole programme

·      Pre and post-event cleaning

Financial:

·      Payment for  the three extra peripatetic music teachers.

·      Catering costs including utilities, food and labour

·      All music resources.

·      Promotional costs.

Pupil Involvement

48 pupils from across the Midlands attended, including some from Wrekin College. Pupils from 15 different schools from as far as Craven Arms, Wolverhampton and Whitchurch. 

Frequency

This was a single event.