Adult learners from South Leeds took part in a once-in-a-lifetime recording session at London’s famous Abbey Road Studios as part a course called People in Production.
Funded by Leeds City Council through West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s adult education budget, and provided by Beeston-based Vera Media, a community learning organisation, the music production course supports vulnerable people to develop their confidence and skills which could lead to work. Some of the course participants live with mental health struggles or are in recovery from substance misuse or alcohol misuse.
One adult learner taking part in the course is Michelle, who is in recovery from addiction and has bipolar disorder. She commented:
“The People in Production course and the support and encouragement I’ve received from Vera Media has been a real game changer. The trip to Abbey Road was the cherry on top of what has already been an incredible experience and something we’ll remember forever.”
The adult learners helped to record an original track written by Leeds-based song writer, Nicky Bray, in Studio 2 at Abbey Road Studios, made famous by musicians such as The Beatles, Oasis and Adele. They were accompanied by expert music producers and lecturers from Leeds Beckett University, Dr Paul Thompson and Barkley McKay, a band of professional musicians and She Sings, a Wakefield-based community choir.
This post is based on a press release issued on behalf of Vera Media
Main photo: Adult learner Michelle at Abbey Road Studios
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