The New Art Gallery Walsall - Composing Project
Composing to Pictures 26/27
A project of musical creativity throughout the Spring Term
About the Project
Composing to Pictures is a creative project that encourages students to explore the relationship between art and music, using selected artworks as inspiration for their own musical compositions.
The project begins with a visit to The New Art Gallery Walsall (NAGW), where students will take part in two sessions. In one session, students will explore a selection of artworks chosen specifically for the project, working with a gallery expert to discover the ideas, themes and techniques behind them. In the other, students will take part in a practical composing workshop led by Walsall Music Educator Nick Dewhurst, exploring musical ideas and techniques that can be used to respond creatively to visual art.
Both sessions run concurrently, with groups swapping halfway through the visit, meaning students may begin with either the gallery session or the composing workshop. By the end of the visit, all students will have experienced both activities, providing them with the artistic and musical inspiration needed to begin creating their own compositions.
Over the following weeks, students and staff will develop their own pieces of music inspired by the selected artworks, putting into practice the skills and approaches introduced through the project and staff CPD.
After February half term & subject to availability, Nick will arrange a visit to each participating school to hear how the compositions are developing. Students will receive constructive feedback, guidance and ideas to help them refine and progress their work.
The project culminates in a video presentation, showcasing the students' compositions on the Walsall Music YouTube channel and shared with all participating schools, providing an opportunity to celebrate and experience the creative work produced across the project.
How to participate in the 26/27 project
Please download the 26/27 Information Pack for more details and costs, and complete the booking form included.
The 25/26 Final Video Presentation
