Music Makers Lab was 'Best Week Ever'

This Easter we welcomed 17 musicians aged 13 to 18 to our three-day Music Makers Lab. An opportunity for young people to develop their own music, learn established classics and make new friends. The lab was free to attend for those living or at school in Islington.

It was brilliant to see some familiar faces and also lots of new ones. The musicians worked in small groups with the guidance and support of tutors Cleveland Watkiss, Mike Mondesir and Fred Claridge and all performed to a packed audience on the final day. We heard from some of the young music makers about their experience.

One thing I didn't expect from Music Makers was to make friends that would last so long, I met one of my best friends, actually a few of them, at Music Makers four years ago and we're still really good friends today.

Jihan, 18

There are very musical talented people that are here to help you, but also it's up to you what you want to do. They'll support you and cater it to you, what you want to do. So if you just want to write some songs, you can just write some songs. If you want to just play an instrument, they'll help you play an instrument and it's just amazing because you have the freedom to express yourself musically.

I'd definitely come back next time because I feel like it's just great to have all these connections with people and to have my own song now is crazy!

Lara, 15

Best Week Ever.

Koby, 11

Music Makers Lab runs twice a year, in spring and summer. The summer Lab will run from 28 July to 1 August in partnership with Islington Council's Summerversity 2025. Keep an eye on our website for more information and to sign up nearer the time.