Following her gig at More Music on Saturday 3 February, Zimbabwean performer Anna Mudeka delivered a day of inspiring music workshops at St Patrick’s Primary School in Heysham on Monday 5 February 2024.

Funded by Lancashire Music Hub, the workshops were a unique opportunity for four classes to learn songs in African languages including Xhosa and Swahili. The sessions also covered cultural history and dance with plenty of creative opportunities for children.

In recent years, More Music has arranged a number of schools visits like this to connect the artists who perform at our venue with school children from across Lancashire and give them an inspiring experience. Anna was accompanied by More Music musician Anni Tracy, which provides a valuable opportunity for her to see different musicians in educational settings which they can apply to their own practice and share with other staff.

Anna said: “My visit to Morecambe was very enjoyable, being my first time. I felt very welcomed everywhere I went. My visit to St Patrick’s School was just as special as many schools I’ve taken my work over the years. Curious faces eager to hear about my culture rolled into the main hall and soon we were singing songs from Kenya, Zimbabwe and South Africa.”

“It’s moments like this I feel privileged to share my heritage and inspire next generations. It was certainly a Monday like no other and I shall cherish it for many years to come. I am glad live music in Morecambe is very much alive and the importance of how it will always be a powerful tool to build bridges must never be underestimated.”

Deputy head Julie Murphy said: “Anna had amazing enthusiasm with the children. The whole school assembly was brilliant – Anna had all the children engaged and loving what she was doing. The class sessions were great and the children enjoyed learning from Anna on a smaller scale. Staff and children really enjoyed the day.”

You can find out more about Anna Mudeka and listen to her music at her website https://annamudeka.co.uk