George Smith
My time spent progressing through Wolverhampton Music Service played an enormous part in my development through school, higher education and post university.
I started to learn the flute through the Music Service when I was 8 years old, and have been involved in music ever since. I went on to complete Grade 8 flute, Grade 6 piano, and played with a number of ensembles and orchestras at the music school.
After finishing sixth form in 2016, I went on to study at the University of Nottingham, where music continued to be an important part of my experience.
Whilst in Nottingham, I wrote for the university music magazine ‘The Mic’, and won an award for a dissertation which investigated the importance of music education in Wolverhampton, concluding that the work the service does is invaluable in the development of young people’s lives.
Since graduating from Nottingham, music has remained a core focus of my life.
Earlier this year, I opened Floreat Studios with my brother, Arnie. The studio serves as a base for contracted research work into education and the creative sector, as well as a space to continue making music.
As a result of the foundations and passion developed through Wolverhampton Music Service, today I am able to continue to play, produce and release music.
Developing an enthusiasm for music as a result of the efforts of Wolverhampton Music Service has enriched my life and the lives of my peers who benefited, and continue to benefit, from the service. It plays an enormous social and educational function in our city, and I hope it continues to be able to for generations to come.