Stakeholders

The Big Sing

The Sage, Gateshead

The Big Sing is the culmination of seven months of hard work by teachers at the schools in the north-east and the staff and musicians of The Sage, Gateshead. The second of the three annual Big Sing events that we are sponsoring at The Sage this year took place on 3 July 2008.

The event is an annual project and this was the second in a three-year programme sponsored by MetroCentre, Gateshead and Eldon Square, Newcastle. The theme this year was songs of freedom, drawn from cultures around the world.

There is no disputing the success of the event with over 3000 children aged 8-13 attending from schools throughout the north-east. The excellent organisation and highly professional production values of the event reflect The Sage’s and the schools’ commitment to ensuring that the participants get the most out of the day. The logistics of getting so many children to the event on time and good spirit is a significant task that is handled with great skill and determination by all involved.

During the preparations for the event, 50 children from Hazelwood School in Wide Open performed in front of crowds of shoppers at both Eldon Square and MetroCentre, accompanied by musicians from The Sage.

The feedback receive from participants is one of excitement and opportunity. These are some things children from Hazel wood School had to say of their experience:

“You can all join in a group and connect with your friends and teachers can connect with their pupils” – Katy C Year 6 Hazelwood School

“The teachers are great – and we are never bored” – David S Year 6,

“It is really exciting finding out what songs we will be singing this week” Callum W , Year 5

“Singing helps me express my feelings” – Samantha H, Year 6

Teachers also experience the positive effects of the project:

“The experience has enabled children to develop their own freedom of expression and encompassed all of the musical skills in a fun way” – D. Miller, Year 6 teacher

“It has been a revelation and delight to work with such an enthusiastic team, who are regarded as part of our school family and have brought together our whole school in a shared goal – absolutely fabulous.” – Ali Endean Head Teacher