Summer Virtual Academy Programme goes live

Bristol Plays Music responded to the closure of schools and need for lockdown learning by creating a Virtual Academy, providing existing and new music students in Bristol with individual music lessons.

Following the success of the BPM Virtual Academy and the NCIE Virtual Academy, both have joined forces to present the Summer Virtual Academy, taking place across two weeks from 3-14 August.

The Summer Virtual Academy provides a range of exciting and creative online musical workshops and activities for children and young people from 6-18, suitable for all levels of ability and a Family Sing for all ages.

The team of expert music practitioners will take participants on a creative journey, channelling their musical ideas and energy through composition and songwriting.

Learners can:

Sharpen their orchestral technique through the strings boot camp
Compose their own music for piano
Join one of the songwriting workshops
Have fun exploring sound effects
Hear from professional musicians about their unique musical journeys.

Plus, those who already take part in ‘Flow Creative’ or ‘Hope Creative’ sessions can check out the workshops that are especially for them.

Workshops range in price from ‘no cost’ to ‘low cost’. There is a maximum number of 8 participants per activity, unless advised otherwise.

Programme

Click on each link below to find out more about each session and book places.

• Compose Your Own Piano Piece with Richard Barnard

• Sound Effects with Tara Baggott
• Orchestra/Ensemble Strings Boot Camp with Lynne McCabe and (guest) Tim Harrison
• Music Journeys video series
• Flow Creative Group Sessions (for existing participants only)
• Hope Creative Group Sessions (for existing participants only)
• The Great Big Ambient Jam
• Song Writing Session

Phil Castang, Director of Creative Learning and Engagement at Bristol Music Trust explains:

“Our purpose is to support young people’s music education and discover the joy of music. That remains true even in these trying circumstances. We know that music is a vital part of a rounded education and also an important means of self-expression, so the Virtual Academy is a place for young people to continue with that experience and learning.”