What a lovely session on Friday. The children from Pakefield Primary School visited residents at Hildesley Court for the first time and within minutes it was like they’d always known each other.
There was much excitement as the children ripped off the masking tape to reveal the patterns on their Lowestoft Folk Story Bags and gasps of surprise and joy as they then showed the residents the decorated scallop shells and gave them the shells-with-messages.
Next, Kate introduced the group to the notion of mark-making to music. Choosing from a selection of pens, printing ink or water colour paints, residents and children alike were soon totally absorbed, painting and drawing in response to a variety of songs and pieces of music – all with a nautical theme.
“I think this is the best art I’ve ever made,” said one student, whilst an adult commented, “Well, I’m not sure what it is, but I like it.”
After which, Mary continued the musical journey, sharing out instruments from chime bars to the shruti and a cigar box guitar, with which the group was soon conjuring up the sounds of the sea.
This week we look forward to more music with Mary – but not before we’ve heard the special Maritime Tales, written and told by Lynn; we can’t wait for the next session of Lowestoft Folk.