A WINCHESTER music charity has big plans on the horizon after receiving a £30,000 grant from Youth Music.

Winnall Rock School (WRS) is aiming to support more people of all ages to engage with Winchester’s community music services.

The music charity, based at Unit 12 in Winnall, is also planning a 'Winchester Community Music Festival' for next summer to showcase local people having a go at making music, at all levels of ability and magnitude.

The £30,000 grant from Youth Music will additionally help the organisation to expand from helping 11-17s to supporting younger musicians from seven and up to 26 years old.

READ MORE: Winnall Rock School: Providing a home for kids through music

Winnall Rock School is inviting those interested in boosting Winchester’s musical network to join a meeting on Saturday, September 30 at the University of Winchester’s West Downs Centre from 10am to 1pm.

Project coordinator Peter Jones said: “There’s lots of people looking for music teachers and choirs but there is nothing particularly aimed at young adults.

“We’re interested in having relationships with other music groups and forming collaborations to support one another, whether that’s us providing a rock accompaniment or a choir performing vocals for us.

“The festival could be anything. I see it as maybe just a marketing and branding event for the groups and musicians we have in Winchester.

“What we would really like to do is have something that encourages anybody to take up music. And for people to get together and make music. There are lots of opportunities for us to explore.

“The meeting is for people to get together, who perhaps might usually be working on their own, and collaborate. It’s about getting everyone in the same room to find new potential. We’ve had a really strong response so far

SEE ALSO: County council to increase monthly payments for Homes for Ukraine scheme

“Loads of people have music as a hobby but we want to make it much more social. We know how creative music making can help with confidence building, socialising and generally improving well-being, we’ve seen it.

“There are clearly gaps in provision and knowledge in what is out there. Groups are generally populated by older adults but it would be really good for younger adults to feel they could be part of it.”

The music charity has been backed by the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Angela Clear, who watched the rock group's annual performance at the Theatre Royal.

Cllr Clear said: “I have supported the Winnall Rock School Project for a while. They provide opportunities and support the well-being of young people, helping to develop their talents and social skills.

"Having attended concerts put on by the Winnall Rock School, I was very impressed with how enthusiastic and dedicated they all were and how they all supported one another. Long may the Winnall Rock School continue,”

The University of Winchester, The Arc, Play to the Crowd, Winchester BID, and Winchester City Council have already expressed their interest as potential partners and event hosts.

For more information or to attend the meeting, contact winnallrockschool@hotmail.co.uk.