Music for life - Wind band wonder
Warwickshire County Council’s Music Service has a lot to shout and sing about with a whole range of musical options on offer for people of all ages.
In addition to offering services such as community programmes, music theatre, group participation, youth sessions and music therapy, the County Music Service (CMS) is probably best known for music tuition through schools.
One pupil is Craig Gilchrist, a 16-year-old student from Nuneaton. Since he picked up a clarinet at the age of ten and joined the CMS he hasn’t looked back.
Back then Craig was very reluctant to try new things and was very apprehensive about learning a new instrument as he has previously struggled with the piano. As soon as he met his teacher and discovered she was not an “evil authoritarian” his nerves disappeared.
Six years later, with five clarinet grades under his belt and working towards his sixth, Craig is going from strength to strength. During this time he has been involved with both the area and county wind bands as well as playing with the Area Orchestra. He has been on residential trips with other members of the bands and has made some great friendships.
Craig left Higham Lane School last term and is moving to King Henry’s in Coventry for his A-levels but will continue to attend weekly lessons with the County Music Service.
Talking about his experiences with the service, Craig said: “I have seen a massive improvement in both my attitude towards music and my ability. With the help of my teacher Mr Casey’s raw enthusiasm for music and my own curiosity to learn and experience more, I have become much more involved with the Nuneaton Music Centre and experienced things which, without the CMS, I would not have had the opportunity to do.
“The CMS has given me so much over the years and I have enjoyed every second of it. I hope that I can continue my musical career in the future and when I do, I have the CMS to thank for providing me with the musical ability and the many skills that will benefit me countless times in the future.
“My involvement has given me the chance to meet some incredible people, both students and teachers. I have formed great friendships that I am sure will last a very long time. I have met people that, like me, have a passion for music and a desire to achieve.”
Warwickshire County Councillor Izzi Seccombe, Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People and Families said: “Music for life is the CMS motto and this message chimes loud and clear both through the wide menu of learning and playing opportunities on offer and the lifelong commitment evident in music makers like Craig.
“Of course none of this would be possible without support from schools, parents and our partners whose contributions help us to maintain these valuable services.”