SOUTHEND’S beloved Music Man Project will receive the highest honour a voluntary group can receive – the King’s Award.
The project, which has allowed disabled people in Southend to perform on some of the biggest stages, has been recognised for its work to raise awareness of the potential of disadvantaged people in the arts.
Since being set up in 2000, it has inspired more than 16,000 children at music workshops in schools, and every year it travels thousands of miles to perform concerts and launch regional Music Man Projects.
Today, it will be announced the project, founded by David Stanley, will receive the King’s Award for Voluntary Services - the equivalent of an MBE for charities.
The group promotes equal access to performance and increases musical opportunities for disabled people.
Mr Stanley said: “I am so proud of The Music Man Project Ambassadors.
“They all have a learning disability, and they have spent decades helping others to access music and to reverse perceptions about what their community can achieve.
“They are my inspiration, and their hard work and commitment has turned them into outstanding role models.”
The Music Man Project Ambassadors have also played the London Palladium and Royal Albert Hall, delivered a music workshop at 10 Downing Street, and received a standing ovation from the King.
They recently stole the show at the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Canada, and they have also just returned from performing alongside an Italian disability charity in Milan.
Michael Ball OBE, Music Man Project patron, said: “The Music Man Project Ambassadors are a force to be reckoned with. Their enthusiasm, joy, humanity and commitment are utterly compelling.
“The positivity and sense of purpose they give to everyone they come into contact with is a gift for us all and I am so very proud of their spectacular achievements.
“They represent the best of us.”
Former Southend West MP and Music Man Project patron Anna Firth added: “The Music Man Project Ambassadors represent the very best of Britain and of Southend.
“They light up every room they enter and their dedication, commitment, and ability to release the power of love into every performance or situation is truly exceptional.
“I am so delighted that their exceptional contribution has been recognised by King Charles.”
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