We are Better Together - Newsletter October 2022

The Music Works is a Gloucester based charity whose mission is to transform young lives through music, particularly those in challenging circumstances, helping them reach their full potential in music, in learning, and in life.

They work with over 3,000 young people a year from ages eight to 30, in schools and state-of-the-art community rehearsal spaces in Gloucester, Stroud, and the Forest of Dean. They do everything from helping young people get started in music, to supporting emerging artists and running festivals and events.

“The Music Works makes dreams come true! Before I came here, I didn’t really know myself, I was a bit quiet and they have really helped show me what I can do outside of my comfort zone, allowing me to stretch my talents and really feel myself,” said Lydia, 22.

Inclusion is at the heart of everything at The Music Works. They believe that true musical inclusion can only happen if all young people are supported as musicians across all genres and styles, by leaders who genuinely support them as individuals. The music leaders are creative role models who believe fundamentally that any young person has the potential to be creative. They work to empower any young person regardless of the barriers they may face, helping them to make whatever music they want to make.

In July 2021, The Music Works opened the doors to their brand new fully inclusive community music hub in the heart of Gloucester.

Guy Moot, CEO of Warner Chappell Music, global music publisher and one of the Hub’s many sponsors, grew up in Gloucestershire and knows first-hand how challenging it is to become involved with music. “Music should be a route for all young people, and it was really tough for me and others like me at the time [of growing up]. The Music Works’ Hub is a game-changer for all the local, undiscovered artists that will now thrive in this space - it will empower them to pursue careers in all areas of music,” he said.

Find out more at www.themusicworks.org.uk