This blog post was written by Michael McEwan, our Lay Researcher in Glasgow.
I’ve been doing freelance work with Limelight Music for many years but this is the first time that I’ve been involved in reporting on the inclusive workshops they deliver. I’ve found the workshops fascinating and learnt a great deal about the impact they have on those participating in the sessions. The confidence, engagement and musical development of the participants has increased in recent weeks, creating a positive environment for everyone involved in the programme.
By attending and reporting on the workshops I’ve been able to get a better understanding of how effective music is as a form of communication opening up those taking part in the sessions. A great deal of emphasis is placed on everyone having fun and feeling relaxed. Some of the participants are more tentative than others but everyone contributes to the process of music making and there is a real sense of community.
It is also very interesting to see how the Limelight Music staff use various techniques to engage with those taking part, on a group and individual basis.
In the workshops I’ve attended there have been 8 or 9 people taking part and this group size seems to work well given the structure of the sessions. This allows for everyone to get the level of attention they need.
When I was talking to one of the support workers, they said that those taking part really loved the workshops.
Michael McEwan
