This could be the name of a new Christmas Number 1 if two schools and a sheltered housing scheme in Basildon have their way.
Inspired by the huge popularity and success of a reminiscence project involving both young and old, representatives from two local secondary schools and a sheltered housing scheme are three participating organisations that are now developing another exciting community initiative, prompted by their own involvement in the Our Memories project as delivered by the ‘Our Basildon’ team across the town in November last year.
This enthusiastic collective have been motivated to continue the excellent results of the intergenerational reminiscence programme, and work together to lead the development and creation of a concept CD based on peoples’ memories of the origination and development of the town. The anticipated title derives from the address of the first residents to move in.
The ‘Our Basildon’ Project Director, Lisa Hawker says “we are so excited that the many people, both young and not so young who have been involved in capturing the spirit of Basildon in ‘Our Memories’ have inspired this CD. It was very important that the evident success of last year’s project wasn’t lost, and it’s wonderful that some of the important organisations involved in working with us then, still feel so motivated to see the obvious benefits carried on, providing opportunities for all. We are privileged to be able to support them”
Deputy Head of Woodlands, Alan Morgan together with Eileen Prizeman, Community Cohesion Co-ordinator at De La Salle and Michelle O’Toole, scheme co-ordinator for St Georges Community Housing at Riverview Court Sheltered Scheme are all waiting to hear from members of the public. Michelle explains “Whether you want to have your memories and experiences recorded, help with composition and lyrics, play an instrument or get involved in any other way, we want to hear from you. “
The Musical Director will be James Lovelock, Head of Music at Woodlands who also composed and wrote `Life as Normal` for the National Health Service. He is enthusiastic about this project “because it will engage our young musicians and singers with people who have a wealth of knowledge and talent in a genuinely collaborative venture. I am confident that the resulting CD will be a lasting testament to both Basildon`s past and creativity across the generations. With a concert performance of the results also in the offing we want as many people involved with a love of Music and History in whatever capacity. Let`s show everyone what Basildon has to offer and the journey we`ve been on since those early days of the new town.”
The De La Salle students are equally excited to be part of this new project. Eileen Prizeman, Community Cohesion Co-ordinator says “The enthusiasm and friendship that was generated through the ‘Our Memories’ project, gave our Senior Citizens a feeling of belonging. Equally, the students were also very appreciative of the knowledge they received from them. This new project enables all people of all ages to be involved and share their talents and stories with each other. This is a great opportunity for all the community to be cohesive and put Basildon on the map.”
All participants in the previous Our Memories project will, without exception be invited to take part but it is important that opportunities are extended, even more so that the multi-cultural nature of Basildon as it is now is really reflected in the CD; ethnic groups in particular are warmly welcomed to get in touch, but the opportunities are open for everyone over 60.
Please call Alan Morgan on 01268 282146; Eileen Prizeman on 01268 281234; Michelle O’Toole on 01268 557508 or email lisa@ourbasildon.org to take part.