Families were treated to a feast of live music during a special session hosted by talented A Level students.
It took place at The Treehouse and was for children and families receiving care and support from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The hospice regularly stages band practice evenings but this one was special as it was run by students from One Sixth Form College, in Ipswich.
Supported by EACH Music Therapist Ray Travasso, they planned an event tailored to the needs of the children, crafted a setlist of songs and sensory activities and came up with a ‘live lounge chill-out’ theme.
Student Yazz Harper played the saxophone and described it as a ‘fantastic opportunity’.
She said: “The majority of the families won’t get a chance to attend music events, so it was an absolute honour to provide that opportunity.
“I found the evening very emotional and the feeling I got watching people reacting to our music was indescribable and overwhelming.
“There’s no doubt people need music. Everybody should have access to it, as well as the opportunity to use it as an outlet.
“I’d love to play at future music nights here and think it would help me develop my performance skills to a diverse range of audiences.”
In addition to the students, Ray was also quick to thank Lois Hin, Head of Music at One Sixth Form College.
He added: “The event was a real success and everyone enjoyed it.
“The students learnt lots about the work of EACH, while also getting involved with the planning and finding out more about music therapy.
“We were very pleased with the collaboration and hope it becomes a regular event each year.”
