DISQUIET

DisQuiet started in 2023 to give young people in Medway and Swale a space where creativity felt accessible for everyone. Through weekly music sessions, holiday audio camps, open band practice, and live showcases, they could experience music in a way that felt welcoming and supportive.

Some were trying music for the first time. Others honed their skills, performed, collaborated, and strengthened their well-being. Along the way, confidence grew, new abilities were developed, and friendships were made.

DisQuiet wasn’t just about learning music. It was about belonging, having a space to express yourself, try new things, and discover what was possible.

Listening to those taking part shaped everything we did. Through conversations, feedback, and co‑design, the programme evolved. Participants took part in nine live performances, wrote their own tracks, and even produced a music video at Pie Factory, Ramsgate – Brain Leak (see video at the top of the page).

Here’s what some participants said about their experience:

“I like to connect with other people that I’ve never known before, and I’ve made new friends, and it’s just such a great experience”

“It’s just a chance to play with other people. You don’t sort of get the opportunity that often.  Like I do music GCSE but that’s more sort of talking about Mozart. This is the opportunity to play music that you like, instead of music someone’s telling you to listen to”

If you’d like to explore the full story, including outcomes, feedback and data, you can read the evaluation report below.

Project Legacy: 

Gillingham: Medway Youth Service has now taken over the project with help from Kent Music 

Sittingbourne: The facilitators and youth worker have applied to the Arts Council to continue the project.  Watch this space for an update on the outcome.