Music changes lives as KYOM23 starts
On Tuesday 3 January, we hosted ‘Music Changes Lives’ alongside Musica Kirklees at the University of Huddersfield, kicking off Kirklees Year of Music 2023.
What was the music changes lives conference about?
The one-day education conference sought to inspire music educators and the next generation with guest speakers, practical workshop sessions, a marketplace and young people’s panel. It highlighted the need for more dialogue and collaboration between the music industry and music education. So that we can all support young people looking to develop a career in the music industry.
The packed programme of inspiring speakers and workshop leaders updated attendees on national and regional matters in the music industry. They also passed on new practical skills in learning and education settings. Attendees also discussed how to support young people’s access to opportunities to hear, play and participate in music and how to signpost to career opportunities in music, outside of teaching and performing.
Who was at the Music Changes Lives conference?
The conference keynote address was given by double MOBO Award-winning musician, broadcaster and author YolanDa Brown OBE. She highlighted the role that music can play in young people’s development. Yolanda Said:
“I’m so pleased to have delivered the keynote speech today at the Music Changes Lives conference for Musica Kirklees, the first event of Kirklees Year of Music.
Music is a form of communication. It can help play an important role in every young person’s life because It’s a wonderful way to get in touch with your feelings and to spark conversations with others. As a musician, when I perform I can see how music connects people. Music can really bring us together – I’ve seen it and felt it”
Musica Kirklees was delighted to stage the conference for the first time since 2020, welcoming delegates from across the region including the Leader of Kirklees Council Shabir Pandor; West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin and Cllr Will Simpson, Cabinet Member for Culture at Kirklees Council.
Leader of Kirklees Council Shabir Pandor said:
“I’m really pleased to be here at the first event of Kirklees Year of Music, a great year that will celebrate our rich musical heritage and bring communities together.
We know how vital music is for young people’s development, which is why events like this are so important to both teachers and practitioners. By coming together as music professionals and champions we can make sure young people are at the heart of an exciting Kirklees Year of Music, and are able to enjoy the pleasure music brings, for years to come.
I am looking forward to shining a light on our thriving music scene here in Kirklees. To give everyone the opportunity to be part of it – both those living here and beyond. Music binds people together and it’s important that we continue to invest in it – along with culture, tourism and sport more broadly. The Year of Music is not just for 2023, but an investment into music and culture in Kirklees. We hope that the seeds that are sown this year will inspire the generations of the future.”
West Yorkshire Mayor, Tracy Brabin, said:
“It was fantastic to attend the start of Kirklees Year of Music and celebrate the wealth of musical talent that our region has to offer. The year ahead will showcase this talent to the world, creating opportunities for inspired young people across West Yorkshire for years to come.
“This year of Music is one of the first in a wave of cultural celebrations that will be taking place across the region over the coming years, alongside Leeds 2023, Wakefield and Calderdale Years of Culture next year, culminating with Bradford’s Year as the UK City of Culture 2025. West Yorkshire really is the place to be.”
More about the Kirklees Year of Music Learning Programme
The conference was the first official event of KYOM23’s Learning Programme. The programme includes Continuous Professional Development & Learning for music educators. Alongside, new Kirklees-specific learning resources with music heritage lessons and music practice resources. There will be opportunities for pupils, teachers and communities to experience live performances, and the chance to learn to sing and play an instrument.
What else is coming up during Kirklees Year of Music 2023?
Throughout 2023, KYOM23 will present a range of events, activities and participation opportunities, raisng the profile of music in Kirklees. These include the TOWNSOUNDS podcast in association with Let’s Go Yorkshire. ThA programme to support those in the music industry including an international artist showcase event: And a series of participation projects to support health and wellbeing.
This summer, KYOM23 will also include a week-long musical event devised and directed by composer Orlando Gough and produced by Artichoke. The vibrant musical soundscape and major participatory project will trace the cultural and industrial story of Kirklees, through its multicultural musical traditions.