Concerteenies: The Open Fund for Organisations
Concerteenies new innovative children’s ‘Musical Stories’ with composer Paul Rissmann
Concerteenies aims to enrich the lives of 0-7 year olds and their adults through inspiring, inclusive and relevant musical experiences without compromises. We provide inspirational professional development and employment opportunities for music creators (particularly early career musicians) who are passionate about engaging with young audiences and inspiring future generations of music makers and audiences. We are addressing the lack of high-quality concert repertoire available to very young children in concert venues, education settings and community spaces.
This project enables us to commission two pieces from composer Paul Rissmann based on children’s story books, each for solo instrumentalists and narrator. The pieces will be adaptable for performance in a wide range of settings from schools/ nurseries and community venues to leading concert halls. The new works will be the main piece in a 40–50-minute concert which will include other repertoire demonstrating the virtuosity of the solo instrument, as well as physical and vocal warm-ups and a chance to learn the songs and the actions.
The commissioning process explores new, more collaborative ways of working between the composer, the narrator, the musicians and the children and families. We will invest in creative and educational resources and marketing materials (including promotional and ‘learn the songs and actions’ videos). 10 pilot performances in South Yorkshire will test and refine the performances and supporting resource in Spring 2024 with an exciting tour across the UK in subsequent years.