Children & Young People
Health & Wellbeing
Viva in the Village
Following the success of the Sudbury Sounds project in summer 2024, Viva in the Village was launched to deepen connections within Babergh communities through an intergenerational creative music project. This effort focused on Long Melford, Acton, and Glemsford, aiming to ignite social and cultural bonds by inviting residents of all ages to come together and engage in joyful, collaborative music-making.
100%
of audiences rated their experience as Good or Excellent
92%
felt more connected to people in their community
75%
reported changed perceptions of orchestral music
Purpose and Aims
The project sought to:
- Provide residents of Long Melford, Acton and Glemsford with opportunities to work creatively as a team, compose new music, and foster innovation—all supported by professional artists.
- Encourage social connections for those at greatest risk of loneliness, particularly vulnerable families and older adults.
- Combat social isolation by bringing people together through shared live music experiences.
- Build participants’ creative confidence and offer a supportive outlet tailored to their unique needs and aspirations.
- Develop and extend musical literacy and language skills across generations.
- Help residents stay active and engaged by reconnecting them with local community centres, libraries, village halls, and care homes.
Creative delivery
The project was delivered through a series of welcoming, participant-led workshops that celebrated the creativity and diversity of the community. Under the expert guidance of music leader Jessie Grimes, and Sinfonia Viva musicians Tim Gunnell (percussion) and Nina Kopinska (viola), participants engaged in:
- Songwriting and group improvisation, creating original musical pieces inspired by the ideas and energy in the room.
- Active listening and movement exercises to deepen musical understanding.
- Hands-on experimentation with a range of instruments, from shakers to strings and percussion.
The workshops took place in familiar local venues such as Long Melford Library, Acton Village Hall, and care homes, making creative activity accessible and inviting. The project culminated in a moving concert at Holy Trinity Church in Long Melford, featuring nine Sinfonia Viva musicians alongside participants of all ages, including children from Long Melford Primary School – a true celebration of community creativity and connection.
“The musicians were very talented and engaging, especially with the children who have since been practicing conducting! It was wonderful to see them so involved and confident.” – Local school teacher
Outcomes and Impaxt
- 100% of audiences rated their experience as Good or Excellent, with 100% agreeing the project is important locally and made them proud of their community (average score 9.2/10).
- 92% felt more connected to people in their community, and 75% reported changed perceptions of orchestral music, highlighting its accessibility, interactivity, and fun nature.
- 100% community group leaders rated their experience as Excellent and agreed on the project’s importance and its positive impact on community pride and connection.
- Residents also reported enhanced creative confidence and a renewed sense of belonging.
- Vulnerable and isolated participants found meaningful social connection through shared music-making.
- Children and adults discovered new musical interests and aspirations, inspired by the project’s collaborative spirit.
- Local community venues became vibrant cultural hubs, encouraging continued engagement beyond the project’s duration.
- Positive feedback consistently noted the warm, inclusive atmosphere and inspirational leadership of the Sinfonia Viva team.
“It was an amazing afternoon; our residents and staff had a fabulous time!” – Care home staff
Legacy and future
Thank you to everyone who took part in making Viva in the Village a joyful celebration of music, community, and creativity.
Looking ahead, we are excited to:
- Continue delivering intergenerational music workshops and performances
- Expand partnerships with local venues and community organisations to sustain creative engagement.
- Develop further projects that blend professional artistry with community voices, fostering creativity and wellbeing.
- Create long-term opportunities for residents to stay active, connected, and inspired through the arts.
Whether you’re a local resident, community group, or organisation, there are many ways to get involved and support our ongoing intergenerational work.
- Host a Workshop or Performance: Partner with us to bring music to your community centre, school, or care home.
- Sponsor Future Projects: Your support helps us reach more people, offering life-enhancing creative experiences.
- Spread the Word: Share stories and invite friends, family, and neighbours to join our musical community.
Let’s keep the music playing – and the community growing – together.
