Make Music Day marked with MSP's visit

Graeme Dey is pictured with DD8 Music staff during his visit.

A registered charity, DD8 Music was formed by a keen group of young Kirrie musicians, which initially set out to address the lack of opportunity for young people to express themselves musically in the town.

It is dedicated to promoting involvement in musical activities to people of all ages in the Kirriemuir area.

It now runs a rehearsal and recording studio in Kirriemuir, and has a space where people can have the freedom to experiment with music and be encouraged to develop their talent.

Make Music Day is the UK’s largest single-day music festival – encouraging musicians, producers, promoters and music lovers to collaborate and organise in-person and online performances in and for their communities.

Since beginning as Fête de la Musique in France in 1982, Make Music Day has grown into a global phenomenon that takes place annually in 125 countries, always on June 21. Solo performers, groups and music creators of all types are invited to take part, regardless of age, ability or musical genre.

Marking the occasion this year, Mr Dey visited DD8 Music at its Kirriemuir premises where he spoke with manager Scott Ferguson about improving music opportunities in the local area.

Mr Dey said: “I was very pleased to meet with Scott Ferguson and some of the team at DD8 Music to talk about the impact music can have on young lives.

“It was very encouraging to hear more about the great work they are doing not just in the Kirriemuir area but across Angus, in facilitating incredibly valuable opportunities for young people in our communities.

“It was a very fitting way to mark Make Music Day, and I wish everyone involved with DD8 continued success in their activities.”

Scott Ferguson added: "It was a pleasure to host Graeme today to discuss the work going on here at DD8 Music throughout Angus.

“Participation in musical and other creative activities can be transformative in a young person's life, and the young people we work with every day continue to inspire us to keep pushing to do more."