This week I called a meeting with David Stanley, founder of the Music Man Project, Samuel Dean, CEO of ‘Team Lewis’, Tom Pursglove, Disability Minister, and Penny Mordaunt Leader of the House of Commons as well as Patron of the Project to discuss the future of the Southend start-up Music Man Project. We met in the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to discuss the future of Music Man and what developments we could all contribute from Westminster.
The meeting discussed exposure for the group and plans to take the talented group to Broadway and even Olympic Openings as well as David’s 6 Goals for Inclusive Arts and Culture, and my proposed Accessible Arts and Culture Day. We also reviewed the incredible work of The Music Man Project UK Global Ambassadors.
The Music Man Project is a multi-award-winning, world record-breaking international music education charity for people with learning disabilities. Music Man Project students have performed critically acclaimed original productions at the West End’s London Palladium and the iconic Royal Albert Hall. They’ve entertained members of the Royal Family, opened a national TV advert, appeared on the BBC, ITV and Sky TV and recorded with The Band of the Royal Marines. They hold the world record for the largest triangle ensemble and recently received a standing ovation from The King in the Royal Albert Hall. A reminder that the tickets for next year’s performance will soon be on sale!
In the past year Music Man has made major advancements, from their American tour to San Diego to Royal Albert Hall concerts with the Royal Marines (connected through Penny Mordaunt and her constituency ties to Portsmouth), the group have been unstoppable. Their upcoming performance in Number 10 emphasises the national scale and the positive role that Ministers, MPs and I can provide in ensuring the musical sensation are not defined by disabilities but are celebrated with everyone being able to witness their performance.
Anna said:
“I was delighted that both the Minister and Leader of the House are as ambitious about the future of the Music Man Project David Stanley, Samuel Dean and I have been”.
“Our talk was hugely productive; we spoke about international opportunities, even the Olympics and musical openings. The talent in this group is so incredible, there is nothing like it anywhere else. I am super proud the group are based in Southend!”
Samuel Dean, Ceo of TEAM LEWIS FOUNDATION said:
"The Music Man Project is a national treasure. Causes like this are so vital to our communities. David has done more than anyone to promote the talent of the musicians he champions. We look forward to working with the Minister of State for Disabled People, Health and Work to further David's campaign for equality in the arts."
