Shropshire Music Service releases virtual community collaboration video
Shropshire Music Service, part of Shropshire Council, this week released a rendition of “Over The Rainbow” using recordings from musicians across the county.
“The Rainbow Project” was an initiative that ran over the summer to try to bring together Shropshire musicians who were not able to rehearse together during lockdown. Over 28 performers, ranging from novices to professionals, sent in more than 40 videos for inclusion in the project, and the final result can be seen below, or viewed here
Two musicians who took part were George Arthur and Beth Salisbury, both of Shrewsbury.
Musicians Beth Salisbury and George Arthur
George said:
“I have been playing drums and percussion for 11 years and have played in various ensembles, from brass bands such as The Jackfield Band to orchestras such as The National Youth Wind Orchestra of Great Britain and various jazz groups, all of which I have thoroughly enjoyed.
“Beth has been playing violin for 11 years, starting with big group classes at primary school, and is now a member of Shropshire Youth Orchestra and also enjoys playing folk music. We have been involved in other group projects during lockdown, such as “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder created by alumni of Shropshire Music Service. This was a great way to make music with our friends one again.
“The Rainbow Project involved people of all ages in music making during this unusual time, and although we could not all play together, lockdown has given us the opportunity to make music in a new, contemporary way.”
Ed Potter, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for children’s services, said:-
“The song is very well-known and loved – it feels particularly poignant at the moment, given that the rainbow became a symbol of our thanks to the wonderful key workers and volunteers keeping our community going during this pandemic. I’d like to congratulate everyone that got involved in this project; I feel the track perfectly captures the emotions felt by the whole community during recent times.”
Alison Stevens, manager of Shropshire Music Service, said:-
“I’m really pleased with this project. For many people, playing music is more than just a hobby. It’s very social, it can be therapeutic and keep people connected. I’m so glad we have been able to continue to play music together, albeit in a new and different way.
“We’ve learned lots along the way to producing this song, and I’d like to thank the staff of Shropshire Music Service for their enthusiasm and energy during these recent months. Their can-do attitude and willingness to embrace new ways of working has enabled us to reach many students and families, as we continue to deliver music and its benefits to as many people as possible.”
For further information about this project and other music initiatives in Shropshire, please visit the Shropshire Music Service website.
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