Performing Rights Society Foundation Diplomas

PRS Foundation Diplomas are awarded to music services in which a passion for new music is embedded across all activity. Fresh ideas, new initiatives, regular performance opportunities and a focus on composition are all of paramount importance.

Bolton

Bolton Music Service impressed the Foundation with its commitment to creative new music. In addition to a new ICT facility at the Music Centre, the service has purchased portable recording equipment for staff in order to support pupil assessment. This year, pupils have enjoyed a Music Technology After-School club, hip-hop workshops and participation in a children’s opera written by John Barber.  Music staff benefited from an INSET course on Music Technology in Primary Schools and there were several exciting collaborations with the Halle Orchestra.

Devon

Devon Music Service won plaudits for its varied activity through the year. Projects included video conferencing with the London Symphony Orchestra, song cycle compositions and sound design projects combining  laptop computers and acoustic instruments. The service retains strong links with local composers with whom children are able to work on new pieces.

East Lothian

East Lothian continues to impress with its wide range of activity. Students are able to use a wide range of music software thanks to the service’s clear focus on digital opportunities. Creative music making remains a high priority for East Lothian, with workshops on podcasting, songwriting and African music all offered over the past year. Pupils also enjoyed working on an intriguing project with Scottish Opera.

Redbridge

Alongside a purpose-built recording room and live performance area, students are able to use a wide range of software packages with which to create new music. Redbridge Music Service also impressed the panel with its large scale Operahouse project, involving  BAFTA award-winning writer Roy Apps and composer John Webb, all within the beautiful surroundings of Epping Forest.

Southwark

Creativity is embedded across all of Southwark Music Service’s work, with both tutors and students regularly creating new music. Alongside spontaneous breaktime performances (always to be encouraged!), pupils have also been writing new pieces for the service’s Gamelan Fusion Band. Pupils also benefit from the Creative Music Ensemble, through which they are given stimuli and ideas with which to seek inspiration for their own music.

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