Paediatric Ward Workshop at Heartlands Hospital Birmingham

 

This was a one off workshop at Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham and was based on the theme of Pirates, we did this by taking in costumes and props for all to use. Throughout the workshop we provided a wide range of musical activities with a variety of different instruments. It was a full ward of 6 bed-bound children, all of which had a parent or guardian present. This workshop worked very well as the main aim was to create escapism from current surroundings; this was achieved as all children actively participated in the activities. During the workshop we included well known songs, new compositions, story and action activities, participant led activities and instrumental soundscapes.

 

Types of activities:-

Soundscape

Story telling

Singing

Acting

Musical games

Treasure Hunt

 

List of instruments and props used:-

Flute

Recorder

Tank drum

Tambourines

Drums

Shaky eggs

Chimes

Shakers

Bells

Xylophone

Material - sea and sand

Eye patches

Red material for children to wear as part of the pirate crew

 

Feedback

Emily-May Roebuck and Martha Thompson presented a fantastic pirate-themed music workshop for patients on the paediatric unit of Heartlands Hospital. The session was interactive and fun, and patients alongside other family members were able to get involved either by singing or playing the variety of percussion instruments the duo brought with them. There was a combination of games, pieces and songs, the majority of which used simple or recognisable tunes so participants were able to join in almost immediately. I was impressed with the energy and enthusiasm that Emily-May and Martha brought to their workshop, and they were extremely flexible throughout with their content, thus supporting the individual needs of each patient. A wonderful team, brilliant musicians, and I would love to have them back for future projects.