Top online activities from our funded projects used to connect young people during Coronavirus

We wanted to highlight our top three examples of activities from our funded projects used to connect people during this time. Quite a few have been inspired by spring blossoms and birdsong!

1. CLIP, Colchester

CLIP in Colchester had a lovely idea of a 'sonic postcard'. They asked their young people to record a sonic postcard of their home, creatively capturing where they are right now and what is sounds like. The response was great - they got recordings of birds in their garden, some compositions on the home piano and one recording of hands being washed! What was quite nice about it was that this remote format made it quite easy to all sit and listen independently to a song (via a shared link) and then talk afterwards (more easily and less awkwardly than in person!). More workshop activities are being developed that make the most of this remote reality, so stay tuned.

2. Wild Earth, Coventry

Wild Earth in Coventry have also been getting inspired by spring and nature too! 'Nature Beats Sonic Signatures' is being delivered online for their youth mentors. The setting is a bit different from the outdoors however the important thing is that they are connected and making music weekly! They also made a beautiful soundscape called 'Spring Awakens', created by recordings sent to them by their young people over last week. Finally, they've been encouraging people to keep Nature Journals - what did you see when you went for a walk? How did you feel after? 

3. CLIC Sargent

CLIC Sargent have been using Twitch to stream the talents behind their music programme every week from 1st April. All streams are free, but with a 60% drop in their income, they're encouraging people to donate too. Live streams have been very popular amongst many music makers to stay connected and anyone can do it. https://bit.ly/2WX9zF7