D+B Music Learning Groups
Working with local partners to improve access to music-makingThe biggest barriers to making music in Cumbria are the huge distances you need to travel to access a music group, cost – instruments and lessons just aren’t cheap – and the cuts in music education that mean young people don’t get a real go at a real instrument.
We are tackling this by going into schools, community centres and nurseries across Eden.
We put on performances and offer taster sessions. Then we invite people to join one of our small local groups to learn the basics or have lessons.
We partner with brass bands to deliver much of our work. With community roots, educational traditions and future potentials to bring communities together, develop entrepreneurial skills and to boost pride and wellbeing, they help us meet the needs of our communities.
And finally we set up opportunities for those groups to come together and perform, and connect. Take a look below. We have something for you if you have ever yearned to play an instrument!
Community Building
Playing in our music groups offers more than just learning; it’s about building lasting relationships and a supportive community. Our groups are all unique because of the players that shape them. All our sessions involve some creative music-making elements. All involve listening and learning to trust our fellow players. Breathing and posture help playing and mental health and we are the richer for the diverse players that come though our doors.
I used to play the piano. When I lost my sight I thought I couldn’t play any more. Joining the band, it got my life back.
Inclusive Learning
Inclusive for us means bringing your whole self to our groups. We learn from our players what adjustments they need, and we work collaboratively. Seasoned players often mentor their peers and learn more about their own practice in the process. In this way we accompany players from their very first encounter with an instrument, or with sheet music, to playing their part joyfully at a community performance.
No Bars Penrith started as a music group but it’s become a community
Highly Skilled Facilitators
Our facilitators have a true understanding of what makes music learning enjoyable, productive and beneficial. We specialise in group practice and bring a wealth of skills to our sessions. Music theory and instrumental teaching experience and qualifications go hand in hand with a sensitivity to trauma, autism, neurodivergeance, social anxiety and many other barriers that prevent people accessing music-making.
I always wanted to join a brass band but thought I couldn’t because I didn’t learn while I was young. But I have and its so much fun.
