zoom
The Soundbeam
The Pool of Sound is a digital music studio based at Byker Community Centre, in Byker, Newcastle. It can be used by people with complex disabilities. It began as a pilot in 2002 with small amounts of money raised from a variety of local charitable trusts. In December 2006 the Henry Smith Fund made a generous grant for three years, this has been followed with grants from the Sherburn Trust and another grant-making body. This means we now have a proper studio; we have two experienced tutors and can offer a variety of support, including specialist Soundbeam equipment.
The Soundbeam equipment allows people to make and control musical sounds just by moving in front of the Soundbeam sensor. This allows people to create, compose, perform, record and visualise music.
The Sound beam itself is a musical box that allows people to make and control musical sounds by moving their body in front of the beam instead of using instruments that require normal hand eye co-ordination. This means that people with limited mobility or hand movements, can make and control (with the help of a tutor) their own music. Over time the person can build up or compile a collection of unique musical sounds which they can keep and play back anytime.
Anyone can book sessions at the Pool of Sound. It costs £20 for an hour and £11 for a half hour. Sessions can be shared with other people
As well as offering individual sessions, there is a drop-in session on Monday and Wednesday afternoons where our tutors are joined by community musicians. The band uses a variety of instruments and everyone (including people with complex disabilities) is invited to join in with the musicians to create a kind of live karaoke come jamming session. Everyone in the community is welcome to come along and join in. There is a £3 entrance fee and £1 charge for carers. These sessions are funded by the Northern Rock Foundation
To find out more about the Soundbeam, contact Brian or Gary on 0191 2659341 or go to http://www.myspace.com/bykersoundbeam
Other services
get involved by
services
job opportunities
staff development
general