Sholing Salvation Army hosts award-winning Music Man Project

A new chapter of musical joy and inclusivity is coming to Southampton as The Salvation Army in Sholing partners with the acclaimed Music Man Project (MMP) to launch a transformative programme for adults with special educational needs (SEN). 

The project will officially launch with a special open event on Saturday, 25th October, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at The Salvation Army hall on 93 North East Road, 
Sholing. Regular weekly sessions will then commence on Wednesday, 5th November, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. 

The initiative, led by local musician and SEN educator Anna Robinson, will provide a vibrant community hub where adults with SEN and their carers can create music together, build friendships, and work towards public performances. 

Anna was inspired to bring the project to the city after attending a large-scale Music Man Project concert.  

Anna said, "As a music teacher and SEN practitioner, I was completely amazed by the scale and celebration of inclusivity. MMP Southampton will provide a place of community and purpose. Together we can create wonderful music and we aim to perform concerts locally and hopefully in MMP UK’s next major concert in London." 

The Music Man Project, founded by David Stanley BEM, is renowned for its unique approach. It provides accessible music education and performance opportunities for people with learning disabilities. It has gained national recognition, including performances at the Royal Albert Hall. 

David explains; “It is not music therapy. It is a full-time music education and performance service. What makes us unique is our original repertoire, combined with a fun and totally accessible approach to singing, playing, signing, and dancing to music.” 

The sessions are open to all adults with SEN, and carers are warmly welcomed. The Salvation Army hopes the project will significantly expand community and fellowship throughout Sholing and the wider Southampton area. 

For more information about the launch event or the weekly sessions, please contact MMP.Southampton@salvationarmy.org.uk. 

The Salvation Army in Sholing’s service to the community is both practical and pastoral. They address immediate physical needs by hosting a community food pantry, offering a welcoming café, and, from November, running a parent and toddler group. Their work extends to emotional and spiritual support through community meals, prayer groups, and pastoral care, ensuring that individuals and families are supported in a holistic manner. 

For more information about The Salvation Army in Southampton Sholing and its community work, visit Southampton Sholing | The Salvation Army.