Education Support

Dawkes Music strives to support musicians throughout their journey, and from the very beginning.  A couple of events we were present at in September are perfect examples of how we are always here to help create, support and inspire musicians of all ages.

On Friday 2^nd September, Dawkes Music was invited to attend the joint conference for teachers for both Oxfordshire County Music Service and Berkshire Maestros held at the Oxford Music Centre, Headington.  The day consisted of various teacher training sessions inspired to share ideas and techniques in order to support and improve music students across both counties.  With an opening talk from local MP Ed Vaisey on how important it is to keep the Arts active in schools, the Arts Council of England also spoke of the various ways they support with funding and resources.

It is with our thanks to both Music Services for inviting us to be there for the day and we look forward to continuing our help and support to you and all your teachers.

On Saturday 10^th September, Dawkes Music attended South Berks Concert Band’s very own “Learn to Play Day” held in Mortimer.  It was a delightful day, extremely well organised and by the looks on their faces, enjoyed by everyone!

As part of the “BBC Get Playing this Summer” initiative, South Berks Concert Band, with support from Dawkes Music, welcomed over 50 budding musicians from the local community to the day where everyone was given the opportunity to try lots of different instruments, from drums to glockenspiel, flute to saxophone, and trumpet to euphonium.

Feedback on the day from parents was really encouraging. Comments included:

•“Very good introduction to music for little ones. Nice they had the freedom to “play”. Very helpful and nice musicians who took the time to help my daughter play & learn about the different instruments. Thank you”

•“My son loved trying out all the instruments and so did I. All instructors were so engaging and enthusiastic. A big thank you”

As a celebratory year from both Dawkes Music (established 50 years ago) and South Berks Concert Band (established 40 years ago), we all know the importance of inspiring people of all ages to pick up an instrument and learn to play music. The benefits are widely noted to help young people improve their overall studies at school and, playing an instrument reduces the likeliness of Alzheimer’s and Dementia in later life.  More importantly, it’s fun!

Coming up on Saturday 15^th October, you can see South Berks Concert Band perform in St John’s Church in Mortimer from 7:30pm.  For more information, and how to book tickets, visit http://www.southberksmusic.org.uk/events.html , email southberksconcertband@yahoo.com or call 07775 988 798.