'Rhythm Rising' will provide young people with free access to weekly samba drumming sessions, removing financial barriers to taking part in music.  Young people will have the opportunity to learn to play a range of samba percussion instruments, with instruments provided so that everyone can participate regardless of their previous musical experiences or circumstances.  Drumming can provide a powerful, cathartic outlet for self-expression, creativity and emotion.  Learning new rhythms and developing musical skills can help young people build confidence, concentration, resilience and self-discipline, while the physicality and energy required for drumming can provide a positive way to release stress and have fun.

Samba drumming is particularly valuable because it is a team activity.  Every player has an important part to play, and the group only works when everyone listens to one another, keeps time and contributes.  This encourages communication, cooperation, active listening, patience, and mutual respect while helping young people develop friendships and a genuine sense of belonging.

As the group develops, young people will have opportunities to perform at local community events.  Performing in front of an audience can help them face challenges, manage nerves and develop resilience.  Working towards a shared performance goal also teaches commitment, preparation, and responsibility.

A positive audience response to their performance will give young people a powerful sense of achievement and pride.  Being applauded for something they have worked hard to create together builds self-efficacy and can reinforce confidence by providing evidence that shows them what they can achieve when they support one another.

Over time, Rhythm Rising will aim to grow into an inclusive youth music community where young people can make friends, develop new skills, express themselves, and experience the positive impact of being part of something bigger than themselves.

The idea for Rhythm Rising is the result of a highly successful six-week Band Skills taster course that facilitated 8 young people to develop their musical skills and connect with each other.  100% of participants expressed a strong interest in continuing the workshops and the Samba drumming workshops allow us to work with more than 8 people at a time.  We aim to start with 12 participants and increase this as we provide more instruments.  The group will meet in Largs Naz Church, who are kindly offering use of their facilities for free as well as refreshments for all participants.  We look forward to performing at a number of local events throughout 2027 and beyond, including the Viking Festival, Yuletide and the various summer events that take place across the local area.

We currently have 12 sets of drum sticks so the only cost for this project is for purchase of Samba drums.  Music tuition is provided free of charge by instructors who hold a PVG through Largs Naz.  The costs are outlined below:

Samba Pack for 20 Players:  £934.99 (Retailer: Sensory Education www.sensoryeducation.co.uk)

Btuty Stainless Steel Marching Snare Drum:  £48.30 (Retailer:  Amazon www.amazon.co.uk)

Postage and Packaging:  £0

Total Cost:  £983.29