Merton Arts Space at Wimbledon Library is once again proving itself to be a real gem at the heart of our community.
Since January it has been holding free weekly music workshops accessible to all in an event called Tuned In. Every Monday between 7pm and 9pm, people have been gathering there to share their love of music. Funding has been raised from the Better Care Fund and the Royal Society of the Arts to deliver the project until at least December 2019. Additionally, support from library staff and volunteers has meant that drums, lead and bass guitars, keyboards and a wide range of percussion instruments have been made available for anybody to pick up and play. Jah Wobble from the band Public Image Limited is on hand to provide professional input.
The aim of the sessions is to connect people through a common love of music. At the beginning in January, no-one knew each other, but now they greet each other as friends, which is the whole point. Not everyone is an acclaimed musician, and some are using the opportunity to learn. The music they make is very varied. There is a flautist playing alongside someone playing a melodica, backed by a drum and bass beat. Unique.
It’s a positive, fun experience. Merton is very fortunate to have activities like this, supported by a forward-thinking library service. They should be applauded.
Written by Jackie Chapman
