WGN members join other older locals for nostalgic ‘Jubilee Journeys’ music & conversation project

Older residents from Wythenshawe, Trafford and surrounds are taking part in a nostalgic ‘Jubilee Journeys’ creative project to celebrate The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee this June. The project is the first collaboration between String of Hearts and Wythenshawe Good Neighbours.

It’s been made possible through a grant from the Arts Council’s Let’s Create Jubilee Fund by Forever Manchester – ensuring that creativity plays an important role in local community celebrations for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Up to 50 older members from String of Hearts and WGN are participating in music workshops and aural history conversations, taking place in community venues (including in Brooklands and Northenden) throughout May. Their stories and memories through the decades will be celebrated through songs and podcast recordings.

Samantha Days, Manager of Wythenshawe Good Neighbours:

“We are so pleased that our members will have this fantastic opportunity to collaborate and celebrate with people from the String of Hearts’ music groups. Thanks to National Lottery Players, Arts Council England and Forever Manchester our exciting Queen’s Platinum Jubilee project will show that everyone can enjoy being creative – no matter their age, background or experience. We can’t wait to hear the songs and stories that will emerge from the project.”

String of Hearts and Wythenshawe Good Neighbours tackle social isolation for over 50s. String of Hearts delivers music-making programmes that reduce barriers to participating in music and creativity. Bringing the two community organisations together for this Jubilee collaboration will enable older residents to forge relationships with people from different neighbourhoods and cultural backgrounds.

A selection of the music and podcast recordings will be shared at an exciting showcase event, where guests will also enjoy a sing-along and a Jubilee-themed afternoon tea at the finale showcase event at Northenden Social Club on Tuesday 7 June.

Lucy Geddes, Co-Director of String of Hearts:

“We are really excited to be collaborating with Wythenshawe Good Neighbours on this project, bringing residents together to explore their creativity and life journeys over the last 70 years, share memories and celebrate the cultural diversity of our community.”

Older residents keen to take part in the Jubilee Journeys music sessions, should contact Lucy at String of Hearts: Mobile: 07392 154 743.

Those who would like to attend the showcase at Northenden Social Club should contact Wythenshawe Good Neighbours: WGNresilience@outlook.com / Office: 0161 905 3898.