In October 2019 we brought internationally acclaimed percussionist and drummer, Rhys Matthews back to the region to provide workshops with both secondary and primary students. After each of the workshops, the young participants performed the piece they had learned in the workshops.

These types of workshops enable all young people to participate in quality music making regardless of their access to formal music education, and are evidenced to support their intellectual, personal and social development, particularly from a young age.

Our percussion workshops and concerts took place at Annan and Kirkcudbright Academies as well as Eastriggs, Kirkpatrick Fleming and Carrutherstown Primary school. Feedback from all involved was extremely positive:

“At the Concert we had in excess of 60 parents, siblings and members of the local community. One great thing that happened was that some of the S2 kids asked if they could join the School Band / Percussion Ensemble as a result of the experience.”

Feedback from primary school teachers included:

“It was amazing, as usual; thank you so much for thinking of us. The kids were engaged and results were excellent.”

“What a brilliant afternoon we had with our percussion workshop! Please pass on my thanks. Kids loved it – totally engaging.”

The following is a handwritten card we received after the workshop: