All Together Now

A large group of people of mixed ages and genders are sitting in a semi-circle in a brightly lit room in a community centre. Some are holding musical instruments, including a guitar, ukulele, accordion, and drum. Several others hold sheets of music.

On 10th June 2025, we marked the final Creative Directions Sounds session at the wonderful Helping Hands Centre in Edlington and celebrated with a special sharing. We were thrilled to welcome all our Stronger Links partners, who joined us to hear the CD Sounds group share their music and mark their journey. Hats off to the CD singers as non-professional musicians, for being up for performing in front of an audience. Thank you all.

There was such a feeling of togetherness and support, as well as pride and achievement, in the room. Each song came with a story and was rich with harmonies, textures, and personal meaning. From heartfelt solos to inventive percussion (courtesy of a packet of Revels and a tin of Quality Street!), the group delivered something truly special.

Music is a healer,
Like a comfort blanket,
It warms the soul,
It soothes the mind.

- Lyrics from Making Music by the CD Sounds group

The songs reflected how the group found connection, community, and confidence – even when it’s hard to walk through the door to something new. They sang about stepping out of their comfort zones, discovering strength through creativity and they showed the pride and skill that has grown up through doing it.

It’s certainly inspired me and made me feel more confident… so I look forward to the groups, and when I leave, I feel like I’m leaving on a high.

– Participant

A group of adults sitting in chairs at a celebration event in a community centre. Most are holding song sheets in their hands and singing.

A special thank you to artist Natasha Poland, who has been with the group since the very beginning. Starting her own journey with darts as a participant, then a volunteer and trainee artist, Tasha now leads sessions as a visual and music artist. She puts it nicely:

The group just brought more and more out every time. They never ceased to impress and amaze. And it was so lovely to see all the Stronger Links partners come together. [I’m] so very, very proud of how far they've come.

We’re also very grateful to the other artists who supported the project, especially Janet, Gary, Luke, and trainee Ella-May, for bringing their energy to the weekly sessions and celebration. And a big thanks to the Helping Hands staff – not least for all the delicious cakes they baked for the event!

A group of five musicians of varying ages and genders sit in a semi-circle, playing instruments, including an acoustic guitar, ukulele, electric guitar, accordion and Cajon percussion box.

Although Creative Directions Sounds has come to an end, all of the wonderful music made by the group is available to stream any time on their Soundcloud playlist.

For those who are keen to get involved, there is still plenty of music activity taking place at our other Creative Directions sessions in Edlington on Mondays and at The Point on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Find out more on the What’s On page on The Point website: What’s On darts & The Point – The Point

Creative Directions Sounds was part of the Stronger Links project, funded by Well Doncaster. Stronger Links Partners:
Age UK
Changing Lives
darts
Live Inclusive
Open Minds
Project 6