Sunderland Music City has launched Music Against Child Poverty, an inspiring initiative that leverages the power of music to address child poverty in our community. This initiative brings together local artists, schools, and music lovers in a series of events and activities to raise awareness, provide resources, and directly support families in need.
All funds raised through Music Against Child Poverty will go toward our charity, helping us continue our mission to uplift children and families across Sunderland.
Making a Difference Through Music
The Music Against Child Poverty campaign includes a wide range of activities designed to engage the community, spark creativity, and provide a sense of hope. Some key highlights include:
Christmas Songwriting Competition
Open to all in Sunderland, this competition invites locals to create an original Christmas song that inspires hope and joy during the holiday season. The winning songwriter will record their song at Birdland Studios in the Culture Quarter and have the opportunity to perform it at the Music Against Child Poverty: LIVE event.
School-Based Workshops
In collaboration with local music educators, Music Against Child Poverty will provide songwriting workshops in schools, where young people can learn to express themselves through music. These workshops not only highlight the educational and social value of music but also introduce students to community initiatives and charities that support local children.
Instrument Amnesty and Give A Gift Campaign
Sunderland residents are encouraged to participate in the Instrument Amnesty, donating unused or unneeded musical instruments to give children in need the opportunity to experience the joy of playing music. Additionally, the Give A Gift campaign allows community members to donate directly to Love, Amelia, making a tangible impact in the lives of local families.
Michelle Daurat, Chief Executive of the Sunderland MAC Trust, expressed her hopes for the campaign:
“Music is such an important and enriching part of life, but the opportunity to enjoy the arts is often limited for children facing hardship. Our goal is to use the power of music to alleviate deprivation and give local children access to the opportunities they deserve.”
The campaign’s centerpiece, Music Against Child Poverty: LIVE, takes place on Sunday 8th December at Sunderland Fire Station. This concert promises a memorable night of performances by the North East’s most beloved musicians, all coming together to recreate the legendary spirit of Live Aid. Modeled on the iconic 1985 concert, the event will see local favorites perform hits from the trailblazing artists who defined that era.
The incredible lineup includes Field Music, The Futureheads, Paul Smith of Maximo Park, Liz Corney of The Cornshed Sisters, Frankie and The Heartstrings, Slug, Stockton Road Hit Squad, Nadedja, Chat, the Young Musicians Project, and Ruth-Ann Boyle of Olive, known for her hit single “You’re Not Alone.” The evening will be hosted by former BBC Look North presenter Jeff Brown, adding a special touch to this unforgettable event.
Tickets for Music Against Child Poverty: LIVE are available now through The Fire Station’s website.
Love, Amelia Chief Executive, Steph Capewell, shared her appreciation for the initiative:
“As a charity, we see firsthand the devastating impact that poverty can have on children and their families in our community. Music Against Child Poverty is a wonderful example of how the power of music can bring people together to create real change. Every donation, every instrument, and every effort made through this campaign will go directly toward making life a little brighter for the children we serve.”
Join Us in Making a Difference
Donations to the campaign can be made directly via wonderful.org, with every penny supporting Love, Amelia’s efforts to help families in need.
- Donate £50 between now and October 31st, and your donation will be matched, so Love, Amelia receives £100.
- Donate £100 between now and October 31st, and your donation will be matched by £50, PLUS you’ll receive two tickets to our Music Against Child Poverty: LIVE show on Sunday 8th December at The Fire Station in Sunderland.
- Donate £250 between now and October 31st, and your donation will be matched by £50,PLUS you’ll receive two tickets to the show, your company’s branding on all of our digital screens—including the giant screen on stage at The Fire Station—and a special thank you from our host during the concert.
Bespoke sponsorship options are also available if you wish to donate more. Please email info@musiccity.uk for further details.
If you wish to donate £100 or £250, please leave your name and email address (tick ‘share my email address with Sunderland Music, Arts & Culture) so that they can send you your tickets for the show.
