Four young people from Monmouthshire stepped up to the mic this August to take part in Monmouthshire Housing Association’s (MHA) Summer Rock Academy. The Academy which ran in partnership with Changing Minds and tutored by Rock Academy Wales (RAW), took place at the Melville Theatre, Abergavenny.

The week long course introduced band members to the music world and not only gave them the opportunity to play musical instruments, but also learn how to collaborate to write and produce a song. Guitar player, Josh said, “Learning the guitar was my favourite. I am a big country music fan and I learned chords from some of my favourite songs.”

As part of the course the group also took part in wellbeing workshops that talked about branding and self-image. The project ended with the band creating their own rock video performing their song.

The project, the first of its kind organised by MHA, aims to engage younger people and to promote confidence through music and positive self-image. Drummer, Zara reflected on her week, “I feel so much more confident since Rock Academy. I don’t feel as nervous talking to people I don’t know. I have loved learning the drums!” 

While bassist, Nicole felt “…very nervous when I first walked in but I really enjoyed the Rock Academy. I learned to play the keyboard, drums, bass guitar and made new friends.”

Reg, RAW tutor, was impressed by the group’s transition; “At the beginning of the week everyone was quiet but by Thursday everyone was ‘rocking out’ whilst making a music video. I’m chuffed at how much they achieved in a week; in confidence and musically.”

 Singer / guitarist, Greg said “I really enjoyed Rock Academy and want to continue practicing with the band that we formed.”