We’re excited to launch DMLab in Bristol, Colchester and Gloucester thanks to funding from The National Lottery Community Fund.
DMLab will work with existing and new partners to expand access to music-making for Disabled people by creating inclusive, community-led spaces, in at least five locations across England. This exciting development means we are now also hiring a DMLab National Coordinator to join the Drake Music team – candidates have until July 22nd to apply.
The programme will strengthen social connections, reduce isolation, and provide opportunities for creative expression in ways that work for participants. It will support people of all ages and experience levels, from children and young people aged 16+ exploring music for the first time to experienced musicians looking to develop their practice.
Building on our past work with existing partners RichMix and Manchester Metropolitan University School of Digital Arts, the new programme is designed to engage Disabled people at different stages of their lives. We have brought together a range of partners, including those specialising in working with children and young people, as well as organisations supporting adults of all ages, where opportunities for Disabled people to engage in music are limited.
Following extensive community consultation, the programme expands into new areas in partnership with The Music Works (Gloucester), CLIP Sound and Music (Colchester), and the Disabled-led Bristol Interaction Group (Bristol). We will also pilot activities in Hull, working with new partners to establish self-sustaining DMLab sessions in the area.
Quotes from key partners
Sally Currie, CEO, Drake Music :
“Thanks to the generosity of the National Lottery Community Fund this grant award for Drake Music is a game changer at an important time during the organisations history. As leaders in music, disability and technology this is the biggest investment we have ever had into our Research and Innovation activities. I look forward to working with our partners old and new to develop a national approach to building communities that place co-design and the social model of disability at its heart to develop new and exciting ways for Disabled musicians to make music.”
Lee Holder, Disability Lead / Workforce Development / MLUK, The Music Works:
“DMLab will be a fantastic opportunity for us to expand our effectiveness in working with young musicians who face complex barriers to access due to their disabilities. Networking with other organisations nationally will allow us to share what we have learned on our inclusion journey so far, and access the collective wisdom and experience of other organisations, individuals and musicians across the whole country to ensure music making continues to evolve and radically re-shape the industry into a more welcoming and equitable space for all.”
Steph Massuci, Workshop Facilitator at CLIP Sound and Music, Colchester:
“CLIP are very excited to be partnering with Drake Music to expand opportunities for accessible music making and instrument building in our local area, facilitating previously missing opportunities for disabled musicians. This project means we can work in a more bespoke way to meet the access needs of our community, and allow for more unique and diverse creative expression. We can’t wait to see the innovative instruments and incredible music our community will make.”
Kyle Keane, Bristol Interaction Group:
“We are proud to be part of the Drake Music DM Lab network, where we co-design tools for musical performance and assistive technology that center the creativity of musicians with disabilities. At the Bristol Interaction Group, we believe that community-led projects like this are essential for fostering dignity, inclusion, and full participation in cultural life through technology, music, and shared experience.”
About the partners
The Music Works: The Music Works is a Gloucestershire based charity whose mission is to transform young lives through music. We’re specialists in working with young people in challenging circumstances to help them reach their full potential in music, learning and in life.
CLIP Sound and Music: CLIP is an award-winning music social enterprise dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through innovative, hands-on musical experiences. By fostering creativity, inclusivity, and collaboration, CLIP offers unique opportunities for people of all backgrounds to explore sound, take creative risks, and develop new skills
Bristol Interaction Group: The Bristol Interaction Group is a research group within the School of Computer Science at the University of Bristol (UK). Our interdisciplinary team is dedicated to improving people’s lives through the design and study of advanced technologies.
