ArtsTrain x Active Horizons - from writing an original track from scratch to making a music video
We recently spent four inspiring days writing, recording and making music with partner, Active Horizons in Bexley.
Active Horizons is a community centre in Erith and a voice for young BME and underrepresented young people. At their hub, young people learn about policy, leadership and business skills, gaining opportunities to participate in creative workshops and cultural events.
Many of the young people taking part were at risk of disengagement, exclusion or anti-social behaviour, so our aim was to offer a positive, welcoming place to get creative and learn new skills during the school holidays. We had 20 young people take part, and over four days, the group dived into songwriting and music production.
Music leaders Naz and Cameron guided the group through lyric writing, beats, and recording on a mic, writing 3 songs in total!
On Day 4, the group had the chance to make their own music video for the first time!
“I’ve enjoyed coming together as a group – many people from the community – to make music. It was really fun and a great experience... I liked coming outside to do a music video - it showed us how music artists make their videos and what artists do in their daily lives”
“It gives young people a chance to develop their skills and something positive to do - it gets them off the streets. It also boosts their confidence, and improves their social skills – enables young people to come out of their shells using creativity.”
We are so grateful to Bexley Safer Neighbourhood Trust for funding this amazing project, to the enthusiastic support staff at Active Horizons and to our brilliant music leaders, Naz and Cameron for their creative input and guidance!
We look forward to being back at Active Horizons for another music making project soon!