Brian Irvine’s “An Easterhouse Children’s Manifesto” (“A Children’s Guide to Anarchy”), written for ensemble and singers, was named Best Community and Participation Composition.
The project was developed throughout 2022 as part of Red Note’s 5 Places Programme, which targets locations across central Scotland. The result is a collection of seven musical animated video posters, exploring ideas of personal autonomy, kindness and human connectivity from a child’s perspective. Co-created with the children of Oakwood Primary School with libretto by John McIlduff, it was performed by Red Note Ensemble and Oakwood Primary School.
In deciding the award, the judges felt the project to be “a truly immersive experience for the young participants, beautifully integrating contemporary music” and that “the authentic voices of the children shone throughout, both in the creation and the performance, making their contributions feel genuine and integral”.
John Harris, Red Note Ensemble CEO & Artistic Director said:
“We are truly thrilled for Brian, and also for the children of Oakwood Primary and the wider Oakwood community. This project has not only created something that is beautifully simple and profound, it has demonstrated the wisdom of children and its power to teach us something in return.”
“Thank you so much to The Ivors Academy for recognising this unique project for the very special work that it is, and for giving the wonderful children of Oakwood Primary such a memorable moment.”
Vanessa Thomson, Head Teacher of Oakwood Primary School said the award is a huge thrill for the entire school community.
“Being awarded the prestigious Ivor Novello Award is such an honour. Our whole school community is thrilled and delighted. I’m sure you could have heard the screams of excitement from Glasgow to London! We have a long and wonderful partnership with all at Red Note and Dumbworld. All our children have revelled in all the experiences we have benefited from by working with professional musicians, artists which have developed our creativity and connections to the world around us. This particular project meant that children co-created songs which allowed them to show autonomy and views about how to make the world a better place from their perspective.”
“Bringing the EMC (An Easterhouse Children’s Manifesto) to a wider stage has meant that all the pupils at Oakwood Primary in Easterhouse, Glasgow have a spotlight on them and their views, putting Oakwood pupils voice centre stage. Being recognised in this way is a huge boost to every child’s self-esteem, to their belief in the power of words and children’s voice. The fact that this was achieved in partnership with professionals who share their skills, craft and time so generously with us has given Oakwood a truly unique insight into the power of the Creative Arts, supporting ambition and achievement beyond the classroom walls. We are truly grateful for this opportunity.”
Dumbworld, Creative Production Company said:
“This award is a testament to the incredible children of Oakwood Primary School who have shared their wisdom, joy, and creativity. Their authenticity and insight have been at the heart of this project, reminding us of the simple yet profound truths that often get lost in the noise of the world. We are deeply grateful to have had the privilege to collaborate with these young voices and witness their boundless talent shine. Congratulations to Brian and all involved.”
Clare Hewitt, Music Officer at Creative Scotland said:
“An Easterhouse Children’s Manifesto is a brilliant example of the creativity that shines through young people in communities throughout Scotland. Together with composer Brian Irvine, librettist John McIlduff and the musicians of Red Note Ensemble, the children of Oakwood Primary School have brought their vision of a joyful, connected and inclusive future to life in an incredibly vibrant way. Their work deserves to be celebrated through this prestigious award.”
An installation of “An Easterhouse Children’s Manifesto” was recently displayed at the Glasgow CCA as part of the Nordic Music Days Festival. Both the installation and the award are dedicated to the memory of Dominic Rossa, an Oakwood Primary School pupil involved in the project.
Read Our Creative Voice’s case study of “An Easterhouse Children’s Manifesto” and its impact here.
Red Note Ensemble is supported by Creative Scotland and is a PRS Foundation Talent Development Network Partner supported by PPL. Their support has helped fund this project.
