Grassroots songwriting project blossoms at Southwick allotment
Musician Marty Longstaff joins forces with volunteers at the community garden for a tuneful initiative rooted in local pride
A community songwriting project in Sunderland has struck the right note with participants, who describe it as “uplifting” and “a boost for mental health.”
Hosted at the Just Let Your Soul Grow allotment in Southwick, the initiative was part of The Cultural Spring’s Nibbles programme – a series of small-scale creative commissions that pair local artists with community groups to test new ideas for participatory arts activities.
Delivered in partnership with Sunderland Music City, the project brought together musician Marty Longstaff of The Lake Poets and Ray Hopkins to co-write songs with allotment volunteers and visitors. Each piece was inspired by the people, atmosphere and setting of the garden.
Marty said: “I was so excited to be awarded a Nibbles commission that enabled me to create a songwriting project that brings music-making to the community at such an amazing place.
“This collaborative approach, rooted in the community and focused on sharing a unique experience, is exactly what The Cultural Spring and Sunderland Music City are all about; showing that great things often start small and that art belongs right here, where people live.”
Participants reported greater confidence and community pride, with many noting the project’s positive impact on wellbeing and connection.
The Nibbles commissions are designed to place residents at the centre of creative decision-making, encouraging co-creation and experimentation without the pressure of producing a finished showpiece.
The Cultural Spring, which is funded by Arts Council England’s Creative People and Places programme, leads the initiative with support from partners including the University of Sunderland, the MAC Trust and Young Asian Voices.
The project culminates in a free public performance at the Just Let Your Soul Grow garden on Thompson Road tomorrow (November 8) from 12–3pm.