PARENTS and their children can jam with Wrexham Sounds at a series of new family sessions.

The not-for-profit social enterprise has launched successful music and sensory activities for babies and toddlers.

Baby Jam and Toddler Jam bring them together in a warm, welcoming environment at the popular Rhosrobin site.

Vocal coach Clemmy Gong says the interactive, fun gatherings have been embraced by those in attendance.

“The children and their parents get involved and the focus is very much on enjoyment, social skills and overall development,” said Clemmy.

“We have been holding sessions for babies up to 12 months and toddlers aged one to three years old, where they learn and develop their fine and gross motor skills by playing with musical instruments and sensory equipment.”

She added: “We will be introducing different activities – including the use of sensory resources such as bubble blowers, lights, and items with different textures to heighten children’s senses and aid development.

“The feedback has been positive, and the sessions are starting to fill up fast so we encourage people to get in touch if they would like to take part or book online via our website.”

Wrexham Sounds General Manager Olivia Gallagher said they are extremely grateful for support from Co-op Food and a recent community donation has helped them to purchase equipment needed to deliver the sessions.

“You can already see how much the babies and toddlers enjoy being here but it’s also beneficial to the parents who are able to make new friends in a different setting, which has been welcomed in light of recent challenges due to the pandemic,” she said.

For more information on the services offered by Wrexham Sounds, visit the website www.wrexhamsounds.org or email contact@wrexhamsounds.org

A RENOWNED leadership programme hit all the right notes with a talented music studio manager.

Wrexham Sounds has gone from strength to strength since opening its doors in February, providing disadvantaged children and young people with music-based activities, courses and lessons.

Schools, agencies, charities and families use the Rhosrobin-based social enterprise, which draws on a talented team of freelance tutors to deliver its services.

At the helm is General Manager Olivia Gallagher, a member of the current cohort of CMI Level 7 learners on the popular 20Twenty leadership programme, delivered by Bangor University at Holt Lodge, Wrexham, to organisations in north Powys, Flintshire, and Wrexham.

The 26 year-old says the interactive workshops, study sessions and networking with representatives from different industries has been invaluable.

“As Wrexham Sounds grows, I am also growing professionally, learning new things all the time about this sector and gaining vital experience,” said Olivia, a former St Joseph’s High School pupil.

“I thought it would be an interesting programme that could help me develop my leadership and management skills, and that has definitely been the case.

“As well as the online and in-person seminars and workshops I’ve enjoyed interacting and sharing ideas with other members of the group, who come from a variety of backgrounds.”

A former PGCE student at Aberystwyth University, Olivia also has a degree in Interactive Arts from Manchester Metropolitan University and studied at the University of Lapland as part of the Erasmus Programme.

She added: “As an organisation we have formed strong connections in the public and private sectors, as well as with educators, third sector organisations and charities.

“Since opening we’ve made huge strides and as many have during the pandemic, navigated some challenges as well.

“Being on the programme has already given me added confidence and the lessons and guidance I’ve received have had a positive impact on how I approach my role strategically.

“With it also contributing toward an MBA (Master of Business Administration) qualification there are many USPs, and I would definitely encourage other people in leadership roles to sign up.”

20Twenty Business Development Manager Jackie Whittaker said: “It is always heartening to hear how the Leading Growth programmes affected those who take part and the organisations they represent, giving them the tools and techniques to succeed in management.

“I’m delighted for Olivia, we wish her every success with the rest of the course, and in her bright future with Wrexham Sounds.”

The next CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5-7 cohort of senior managers, owners, and directors begins in September.

Places are still available for the programmes – which are 80% funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through Welsh Government.

For more information and to sign up, email j.whittaker@bangor.ac.uk or visit the website: www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com.

LEADING lights at a popular music studio for disadvantaged young people have been lauded for their inspirational work in the community.

Chris Lloyd, Dave Gray and Caroline Richards – volunteer directors of Wrexham Sounds – are recipients of the UK Government’s daily Points of Light Award.

The programme is supported by all members of Parliament, highlighting the contributions that volunteers, charity leaders, campaigners and social enterprises are making in their regions.

The trio will also receive a letter from the Prime Minister, a certificate of achievement and feature on the Points of Light website – www.pointsoflight.gov.uk.

Announcing their success, a spokesperson for the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport said: “I am delighted to let you know that in recognition of your organisation Wrexham Sounds – which provides disadvantaged children with the opportunity to transform their lives through music – you and your fellow board of directors have been recognised as Points of Light.

“The Prime Minister would like to write to you all, personally thanking you for your work – many congratulations again.”

A delighted Chris said: “Wrexham Sounds gives disadvantaged children and young people a way to express themselves, collaborate, learn, develop, and have fun.

“On behalf of the volunteers, staff and freelancers who work tirelessly to make this happen, we are thrilled to receive this recognition.”

Since launching last summer, Wrexham Sounds has made huge progress in forging new partnerships and securing the services of talented freelance musicians and tutors to deliver lessons and activities across multiple genres.

As well as children and teenagers who are referred via a range of local agencies and educators there are sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school.

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

AN ACCLAIMED music studio is providing young carers and disadvantaged children with free lessons to provide inspiration and an escape from the challenges of everyday life.

Wrexham Sounds has received positive feedback from schools, community groups and health and wellbeing organisations in response to its singing and instrumental workshops.

Among those to benefit was 12 year-old Maisie Carman, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen, who was referred by WCD Young Carers.

Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps mum Lisa and stepdad Dean look after seven year-old brother Leo, who has now completed treatment for chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits further tests for autism and anxiety issues.

She is loving weekly singing lessons with renowned vocal and wellbeing coach Clementine Gong and says being part of Wrexham Sounds helped rebuild her confidence after she “lost her sparkle” during lockdown.

“I absolutely love every second of it, I couldn’t wait to get started and feel so happy when I’m there,” said Maisie.

singing lessons before but really enjoy them and Clemmy is amazing! We practice warming up and she has recommended some great songs which are so much fun to sing.

“I will one hundred million per cent keep singing and in future would love to work as a carer helping other people when they need it most.

“I would definitely encourage other young people to visit Wrexham Sounds, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

Mum Lisa was so inspired by WCD Young Carers she joined them as an outreach worker.

“Maisie is an incredible little girl, she is so kind and I don’t know what I would do without her,” said Lisa.

“I’m so proud of her and the way she handles everything and supports her brother, even attending hospital visits and being there for him when he struggles with anxiety.

“The way she has thrown herself into the singing lessons and given it everything she’s got is a reflection on how she deals with everyday life. During the pandemic she lost a little bit of her sparkle, as so many children did in lockdown, but she certainly has it back now.

“She is so strong, and an amazing character and we look forward to continuing the lessons with Wrexham Sounds because they have helped her in many ways, especially in building up confidence and giving her a platform to shine even brighter – thank you.”

General Manager Olivia Gallagher said Maisie has made huge progress in the past few weeks and is a star in the making.

“She has come so far in a short amount of time and is an inspiration to us all,” said Olivia.

“Seeing how the lessons have had a positive impact on young people like Maisie is heartening and exactly what Wrexham Sounds is all about.”

She added: “We urge people to get in touch if they want to find out more about the lessons we offer and support available.

“We deliver a range of sessions including piano, drums, guitar, singing and more, and plan to roll out further sessions and workshops in the months ahead.”

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

For more on WCD Young Carers call 01597 823800 or email info@wcdyc.org.uk. Alternatively, email www.carers.cymru/wcdyc.

YOUNG people learnt the value of communication and personal skills on a social enterprise pilot programme.

Newly launched Wrexham Sounds hosted a group of learners from Bryn Tirion Hall School, which supports vulnerable teenagers with special needs at its site in Bersham.

Led by Dave Roberts, the group focused on empathetic listening and understanding strengths and traits they would like to improve, and how key decisions can shape our lives and actions.

The Rhosrobin music studio – which aims to transform the lives of disadvantaged children across North Wales – plans to roll out the sessions further in 2022.

“The pilot programme was a big success and the group from Bryn Tirion really engaged throughout,” said Dave, from Welshpool.

“There were musical elements to it – we created a piece that everyone played a part in – and had some really interesting discussions about how we can communicate with each other better, understanding ourselves, why we create goals and overcoming the barriers to achieving them.

“Basically, that journey of getting to know yourself, where you want to go, how you get there and who can help along the way.

“We are now evaluating the sessions, looking at what worked well and how we can take it forward.”

He added: “I really love what Wrexham Sounds are doing, and their vision; the team are really bringing something fresh and new to the community and will have a huge impact on young people in this region and beyond.

“It’s fantastic to see something different driven by music and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Sarah Gaffney, Career and Work-Related Education Manager at Bryn Tirion, was in agreement.

“We support youngsters from some of the most-hard to reach areas, so the skills and ideas discussed and communicated during the sessions were really positive and beneficial for the group,” said Sarah.

“The learners really engaged with Dave and enjoyed the sessions so we look forward to returning to Wrexham Sounds and being part of the programme again in the future.”

Driven by directors Chris Lloyd, Dave Gray and Caroline Richards, and General Manager Olivia Gallagher, Wrexham Sounds has been developing new partnerships and reconnecting with stakeholders and community groups, having renovated the studios and facilities, including the installation of state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

As well as children and teenagers who will be referred via a range of local agencies and educators, there will be sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school, plus related activities for toddlers and infants.

Olivia believes foundations are being laid for a bright future and is confident even greater strides will be made in 2022.

“Making a difference is our primary focus, and we believe these personal skills sessions will do that,” she added.

“The group from Bryn Tirion were fantastic and really engaged with Dave and the content of the programme. They were happy to interact and explore new ideas, which is exactly what we wanted to achieve.

“As we expand our services and welcome more people and different groups to the studios in the New Year, we hope to increase our provision and reach even more people, providing opportunities that might not otherwise be available to them.”

The personal skills course will be available to all schools in the Wrexham area from Spring 2022. Email contact@wrexhamsounds.org or call 01978 345245 for details.

For more information, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media @wrexhamsounds.

NOTES: Wrexham Sounds is supported by Wales Council for Voluntary Action, The Community Fund, Thomas Howells North Wales Educational Fund, Temperance Hall Trust, Wrexham County Borough Council, Yamaha Music Europe, Arts Council Wales, Third Sector Resilience Fund, Moondance Foundation and AVOW.

SPIRITED cyclists completed a gruelling 250-mile journey through the mountains of North Wales to raise money for Wrexham Sounds.

Participants in the epic VELO 21 challenge have already surpassed their £15,000 target for the social enterprise, a music studio for disadvantaged youngsters.

Beginning at the revamped Rhosrobin site, chairman Chris Lloyd and the group were given a celebratory send-off by crowds of well-wishers, including Mayor of Wrexham, Cllr Ronnie Prince.

The route took them around North Wales and through Snowdonia in all weathers, averaging more than 60 miles per day.

Proceeds will help pay for instruments and equipment that will transform the lives of young people through music.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to all of the riders, to our support crew and everyone who got behind us over the four days and the run up to this challenge,” said Chris.

“It was a very tough but enjoyable adventure with lots of twists and turns; we experienced some of the most beautiful parts of the region and, most importantly, have raised a lot of money for the studio.”

He added: “We look forward to unveiling Wrexham Sounds and are busy behind the scenes forming new partnerships, building on existing ones and readying the revamped building for a very exciting future.”

Formerly Vic Studios, the not-for-profit organisation moved from the town’s Hill Street to Rhosrobin in the summer, having been closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

As well as children and teenagers who will be referred via a range of local agencies and educators, there will be sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school – from rap and acoustic guitar to woodwind, drums, DJing and more – plus related activities for toddlers and infants.

Cllr Price congratulated the team at Wrexham Sounds – including directors Dave Gray and Caroline Richards, and general manager Olivia Gallagher – and said the resource will be pivotal in improving access to music and education for children across the area and beyond.

“It was great to be invited to Wrexham Sounds and to hear about the young people being given the opportunity to learn to play musical instruments,” he said.

“For a young person this can be life changing in terms of confidence building, making new friends and just the absolute pleasure one gets from playing musical instruments.

“Well done to you all, and especially the cyclists who put in such a huge effort on their fundraising challenge – it’s a great achievement.”

For more information or to join the team at Wrexham Sounds as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media at @wrexhamsounds.

To donate to VELO 21, visit the website: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/christopher-lloyd-1

NOTES: Wrexham Sounds is supported by Wales Council for Voluntary Action, The Community Fund, Thomas Howells North Wales Educational Fund, Temperance Hall Trust, Wrexham County Borough Council, Yamaha Music Europe, Arts Council Wales, Third Sector Resilience Fund, Moondance Foundation and AVOW.