In conjunction with North Ayrshire Council Music Services, Music@Wellwood would organise a Strings Masterclass in 2026 with Donnie Deacon, a Lecturer of Violin, Viola and Chamber Music at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.  Donnie Deacon can provide guidance, technical advice and possible progression pathways into music for young people taking part.

Opportunities such as this have proven to strengthen access to music within North Ayrshire with young musicians supporting community groups and continuing to work within the community and schools promoting music as a career path and as an important educational tool which can continue to be a lifetime benefit.

In addition to an afternoon Masterclass in the Wellwood Burns Centre & Music, the young people would be invited to attend an evening performance by Donnie Deacon in Wellwood.  

Provision of the afternoon Masterclass would cost £400.  Attendance of 10 young people (approx. number) at the evening performance in Wellwood would be £100.  Afternoon refreshments for the young people attending the afternoon Masterclass £30.  Any costs associated with the use of the Wellwood would be met by Music@Wellwood.  

Attending the Isle of Arran Music School’s Summer School for Pipe Band offers a wealth of benefits for students at every stage, from beginners to seasoned performance band members. For new starters, the summer school provides an immersive, supportive environment to develop foundational skills in piping and drumming, allowing them to learn at their own pace while being inspired by more experienced peers. Intermediate and performance band members benefit from focused workshops that refine their technique, enhance ensemble playing, and prepare them for competitions and public performances, helping to build confidence, resilience, and teamwork.

The summer school also fosters a strong sense of community and belonging. Students form lasting friendships and learn the importance of collaboration, discipline, and mutual support—skills that are transferable beyond music into academic and personal life. The opportunity to perform at community events and competitions further boosts self-esteem and provides real-world experience.

For music leaders and advanced students who teach younger participants, the experience is equally rewarding. Acting as mentors, they develop leadership, communication, and teaching skills, often working towards formal qualifications such as the SQA Music Leadership Award. This not only strengthens their own musical understanding but also instills a sense of responsibility and pride as they contribute to the next generation’s musical journey.

Costs

Tutors- £3000

Accomadation £800

Lunch £500

Transport £200

Hall Hire £600

We are applying for £1,000 to fund a year of free school celebrations at Pennyburn Primary. These will include seasonal discos, end-of-term events, community celebrations, and our very popular Santa’s Grotto this year featuring Ayrshire’s Number One Santa, ‘Do You Believe in Santa Claus Ayrshire’.

Pennyburn is one of the most deprived areas in North Ayrshire, with several data zones in the top 20% most deprived in Scotland (SIMD 2020). Many families struggle with the cost of living, and high charges for events can cause stress or lead to children missing out. We want to make sure every child can experience the joy of school celebrations, without any financial barrier for parents.

This project will guarantee that all children can enjoy the same positive, magical experiences with their friends, no matter their background. The funding will cover entertainment, decorations, refreshments, and transport. By removing all costs to families, we will deliver a school year of celebrations, helping reduce inequality, boosting wellbeing and confidence, and strengthening community spirit.

Breakdown of costs:

• Event entertainment (DJs, Santa’s Grotto, performers, facilitators) – £500

• Decorations & resources – £200

• Refreshments & snacks – £200

• Transport – £100 Total: £1,000