The sun blessed the Music Well for the sixth year running by shining on their Open Garden last Saturday, adding to the warmth of the musical offerings from the Music Well band, The Stupid Fonts, the Rye Ukelele Orchestra, the Drum Circle and Singing for Wellbeing group. There was a full programme of music throughout the day, held in Niki and Andy Stuart’s magical garden in the centre of Rye with the tower overlooking the proceedings.
A steady stream of people came through the doors to enjoy listening to and participating in the music, drawn by the sounds resonating down West Street. An array of delicious home made cakes, soup and bread kept us going all through the day.
The proceeds go towards sustaining the Music Well’s activities, in particular Mary’s Fund (in memory of Mary Shipstone) providing music therapy for children living in challenging circumstances and supporting their mission of “wellbeing through music”.
At the moment the Music Well provides music therapy sessions, improvisation groups, singing for wellbeing, music workshops in care homes and day centres and gong bath/meditations WHAT IS THIS?. It always open to ideas and suggestions from the community about what musical support might be given for health/wellbeing needs. For example it is planning a “singing for better breathing” group and is actively looking for funding to support this.
Please get in touch with the Music Well if you would like further information about joining its musical activities. In particular the organisers are looking to set up a new drum circle and would like people to register their interest: 01797 226330 or “enquiries@themusicwell.org.uk“
photo: Dee Alsey