Celebrating 2024: a year of Connection, Growth and Joy
As the year draws to a close, we reflect on the incredible journey Evolve Music has taken throughout 2024.
Together with your support, we’ve brought the transformative power of music to hundreds of children, families, and communities across the South West.
Here are some of the highlights that made this year special:
Building Musical Foundations
Sound Explorers: This flagship programme has continued to inspire early years settings by embedding a culture of musicality. Across two residencies in Plymouth, we worked with children and staff through group and 1:1 sessions. Practitioners embraced the chance to lead musical play, with one staff member noting, “Music is now part of our daily routine and helps the children to interact more.”
This year, we also trained childminders in the community, leaving a lasting impact through newly equipped musical resources.
Dads Rock: Our programme for fathers and male caregivers has grown exponentially. Over 99 sessions, we saw 784 instances of dads and their children participating, fostering bonding, social skills and creativity. One dad shared, “This not only provides an activity, but it’s also aimed solely at dads,” while another reflected on how their child’s confidence had “grown hugely” thanks to regular participation.
Empowering Neurodivergent Young People
Sound Lab, our programme supporting neurodivergent young people, expanded its reach this year. In Bath and North East Somerset, young participants found a space to explore their creativity, culminating in performances that showcased their growth in confidence and musical ability. In Yeovil, we delivered a series of successful taster workshops and a six-week course, providing a platform for expression and connection.
In numbers:
- 400+ individuals engaged across all programmes.
- 141 participants reached through Dads Rock in four locations.
- 600+ sessions delivered, including group workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and CPD for practitioners.
- Over 50% of families attending Dads Rock sessions reported increased engagement in music-making at home.
Voices from the Community
This year, our programmes not only brought music but also heartfelt transformations:
“You don’t always need to talk to build on children’s communication.” – Practitioner, Sound Explorers.
“Dads Rock has been good for my well being. I’ve seen my child develop their own personality.” – Participant, Dads Rock.
Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025, we’re excited to sustain this momentum with new programmes, expanded outreach and more creative opportunities for communities across the South West.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Your belief in our mission fuels the magic of what we do. Here’s to another year of music, connection and joy.
Wishing you a festive season filled with harmony and hope.
The Evolve Music Team