The Sound of Sunday project is a heartwarming initiative that aims to make music accessible to more people and bring the joy of brass band music to care homes in Durham County. * **Key Facts**

* 20 care homes in 16 towns and villages across the county will host performances from 10 bands on Sunday, July 20

* The scheme is part of the Durham Brass Festival’s Sound of Sunday programme

* The project is supported by the Banks Group and aims to bring brass music to people who may not be able to attend public events

Why Music Matters

Music has the power to evoke emotions, create memories, and bring people together. For many people, the sound of a brass band on a Sunday afternoon is synonymous with nostalgia and comfort. Music has the ability to transport us to different times and places, and the Sound of Sunday project is no exception.

“Music has the power to take us to different times and places, and we hope that the memories these performances stir will have a positive impact on our audience members’ well-being in each location.” – Councillor Lyndsey Fox, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for economy and partnerships

The Sound of Sunday Project

The Sound of Sunday project was first piloted last year and has been expanded this year with support from the Banks Group. The project brings brass music to care homes in 16 towns and villages across the county, providing a unique opportunity for people to experience live music in a setting that is often overlooked.

Benefits of the Project

* **Improved mental health and wellbeing**: Music has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing, and the Sound of Sunday project aims to bring this benefit to care home residents. * **Community engagement**: The project provides an opportunity for care home residents to engage with their local community and experience live music in a unique setting. * **Nostalgia and comfort**: For many people, the sound of a brass band on a Sunday afternoon is a nostalgic and comforting experience.

The Durham Brass Festival

The Durham Brass Festival is a packed programme of performances that will take place from Sunday, July 13 to Sunday, July 20. The festival features a range of performances in Durham and surrounding areas, including parks, streets, schools, care homes, historic venues, and even on boats.

What’s On

* **Sound of Sunday performances**: 20 care homes will host performances from 10 bands on Sunday, July 20

* **Schools programme**: The Banks Group is funding the festival’s schools programme, which will deliver interactive street band performances to over 15,000 children and young people

* **Main afternoon concert**: The Fairey Band will perform Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition at Durham’s Gala Theatre on July 20

* **Mentoring project**: Easington Brass Band will be paired with East Durham Schools to provide a unique opportunity for young musicians to learn from experienced professionals

About the Partners

The Durham Brass Festival is organised by Durham County Council and supported by Arts Council England. The Banks Group is also a major sponsor of the festival, providing funding for the Sound of Sunday project and the schools programme.