Songwriting and Poetry Group
Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor
Manchester Jewish Museum has an incredible capacity for sharing culture and heritage as a living thing rather than artefacts in a museum. The cultural hub in Cheetham Hill is always finding ways for people of all backgrounds, religions and artistic experience levels to get stuck into a creative project. In their songwriting and poetry group, everyone and anyone who wants to give either of these pursuits a go are given space to write and make music with like minded people. Break away from your comfort zone and flex an interdisciplinary creative muscle within this supportive environment.
Each monthly meeting is facilitated by an impressive roster of composers, singers, writers and musicians. Although the group has a number of regular attendees, they keep an open door policy, meaning people are welcome to join at any time. You’ll work together to explore the collections, stories and items from the museum and transform these experiences into songs.
The sessions are very low pressure but the songwriting and poetry group often works towards performances or sharings of the songs they write over the year. These can take place within the museum or the wider community at events such as Cheetham Cultural Festival. Songs are a great way to tell stories and keep a sense of culture and community alive. The existence of this group just proves the power of sharing and celebrating that heritage.
The group is free to attend and is open to Jewish and non-Jewish people with any level of previous experience. It’s a space for experienced writers to share their skills and knowledge as much as a supportive space for those looking to try something new.
Be sure to check out the packed programme of other ways to get involved with Manchester Jewish Museum including in their learning kitchen, Culture Club and through their exhibitions.
