Bognor charity working with young musicians to create music video

Using a borrowed transferable recording studio, organisers will record each contribution individually. Afterwards, those contributions will be edited together to create the final version of the music video.

Under less challenging circumstances, ‘Higher and Higher’ would have been performed at Bognorpheni ’s annual Big Weekend, which also features a variety of kid-friendly workshops and a vintage scooter show. Unsure it will be able to host a large event this year, this music video gives Bognorphenia and the young people it mentors another, safer chance to show off all their hard work.

Part of the idea for the song cam from the charity’s YouTube channel, where volunteers are posting music tutorials on everything from guitar, piano, ukelele and song writing. Organisers hope the lessons will give kids a chance to get to grips with music, despite lockdown.

Kez Bridger, managing director of Bognorphenia, said: “It’s about creating something sustainable. This need is always there and not just because of COVID. Even when this is over, there are some young people that may not be able to come to any of our projects. They might be carers. There could be any number of reasons. But these lessons are always going to be on YouTube and young people can access it as and when they want. They can learn at their own pace.”

The music lessons are just one part of Bognorphenia’s work in the community. Volunteers also organise workshops, mentor young people and host live events that give local musicians a chance to strut their stuff.

Ms Bridger said: “The bigger picture is about engaging young people, giving them something they can eventually take ownership of. It’s just that we’re here to guide them, support them and give them the opportunity to do that.”

To watch the music tutorials yourself, subscribe to Bognorphenia Music on YouTube.