Community bands and orchestras across Berkshire are providing potentially vital mental health support during the darker winter months.
Project Band Newbury, a concert band performing pop and film music, welcomes players of all abilities every Wednesday evening.
Organiser Simon Currie describes a thriving community where musicians support each other beyond rehearsals.
DaCapo, a symphony orchestra, offers similar benefits. Brass player Ian Haslam speaks of the ‘buzz’ from making music together, while conductor Chris Cherng, who manages his own mental health through music, emphasises the unique power of group performance.
Hear below how both groups turn music-making into support networks that benefit participants’ wellbeing.
Feature image credit: Project Band
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