Standing Ovations For Our Moss Side

It’s not just the likes of Martha Argerich who command a standing ovation. Last week, we worked with two schools from Moss Side who created a new anthem for their local area. Children from Webster and St. Mary’s CE primary schools wrote every note and every lyric to the very poignant ‘Our Moss Side’ – a personal and profound comment about themselves and the world that surrounds them. Manchester Evening News attended the powerful premiere last Thursday which had the audience in tears and on their feet in admiration…

Professional musicians and pupils have composed a Moss Side Symphony – including rap and African-influenced drum beats.

World-class musicians from the Manchester Camerata teamed up with dozens of primary and secondary children to sing the area’s praises.

Their 30-minute musical tribute – which was premiered yesterday – aims to dispel negative stereotypes about the district and introduce youngsters to the classical scene.

More than 90 adult and child performers sang, beat and strummed the up-beat epic Our Moss Side to thunderous applause.

Staff at Manchester Academy dreamed up the idea and decided to approach the classical group for help.

They worked with fledgling musicians at Webster and St Mary’s CE primary schools to generate ideas for an original piece of music.

Chris Hutchinson, head of music at Manchester Academy , said: “We really wanted the pupils to bring their own ideas of what makes Moss Side great. We started off with sessions getting them to rap about people and family members who inspired them.

“At our school 50 different languages are spoken. One song, which is called the Welcome Song, tries to use as many of these as possible.

“I work in Moss Side and I live here as well. If people have never visited and they have just heard the name there are so many negative perceptions, but people who come here know that this is not the case at all.”

And Nick Ponsillo, the orchestra’s head of learning and participation, added: “This project and the music created by these young musicians is a fantastic way to celebrate Moss Side.

“Through their unique perspective, energy, creativity and innovation, they have captured the spirit of the community. Camerata is their orchestra and we will continue to collaborate with our partners and young people from Moss Side to develop music making opportunities for all.”