Thank you letters from Bandit 21

 

Hi Kev, Just wanted to write a quick note while the noise from last night is still ringing in our ears to say how impressed we were with the Bandit team and project.

My two boys (Cooper and Zach, 11 and 10) had a fantastic experience - they were in absolute awe of the bigger kids and were so well looked-after. I could see how they grew in confidence after the performance last night - we think it's a really special thing that you've created.

I have quotes from them both.

Zach said: "Thank you for running Bandit. It was a blast. I'd love to go again. I had a lot of fun and I really faced my fears going on stage."

Cooper said: It was really really really fun. I want to have bass lessons now. I'm definitely coming next time."

Many thanks and best regards,

Annie Smith

 

Dear Kevin,

My son, Sam Roe, loved his first experience with Bandit last week and he would love to do the October half term one at Maidenhill School.

I am guessing that it can get booked quickly. Is he able to get a place?

Thanks

Justine

 

Amazing project. A huge thank you to you and the entire team. You must all be shattered!

Our boys loved it!

Alicia

Sent from my iPhone

Thank you letters from Bandit 17

 

Hi Kev

Highest quality Bandit yet, we reckon!  Well done and thank you yet again.

Any idea of the date of the Easter one?  Trying to organise things around it as usual.

Ali

 

fantastic BANDIT tonight , as always, at the Subs. We have some extremely talented youngsters in the valleys ( and some came from Brizzle) - and they are very lucky to have such excellent tutors and mentors. Well done Kev, Dave Ayre, Emily Woods, Jack Powis Page, Mel Rodicq, James Dart, Jamie Burgess, Jason Howlett and John West #StroudNProud

 

Lottie The Prince Albert Stroud

 

Hi Kev

Just wanted to say thank you to you and the team for yet another great Bandit. Louis has been coming to Bandit for about three years now and it is always such an amazing experience and yes, we are one of those families who have to arrange our holidays around it!

Bandit has given Louis incredible confidence in playing live and valuable performance experience. His band, Drifted, formed at Bandit about 18 months ago and they now get together every week at Music Works in Tetbury on a Saturday morning to practise and write more songs. For such young lads, they are so dedicated and driven a seed that Bandit has undoubtedly nurtured and helped grow. Through Bandit, they have got the bug to play more live venues and have performed in Gloucester at a SOMAC event, the Cavern in Gloucester and the Hog Pub in Horsley. All fired up from their Bandit performance, their next gig is at the Prince Albert on Saturday 5th November at about 7pm so if you’re free, it would be great if you could pop in for half an hour. All this would not have happened if it weren’t for Bandit, so deep deep gratitude to you all for giving young people such an amazing opportunity.

Best wishes

Gillian

 

Thank you letters from Bandit 16

 

Your thanking us?!!! Kevin the work that you and your team put in twice a year to make these events happen is amazing. It's you guys that deserve the thanks. Both my boys had a wonderful time and produced great work. The evening was really enjoyable and the standard of all the performances unbelievable. We are all - musicians and proud parents, looking forward to the Autumn show. 

In appreciation
David Barker

 

Good morning,

I just wanted to say Lewis has really enjoyed his time at bandit this week and loved performing last night, I wish there were more opportunities for him to play as part of a band as it's the best form of practice. We weren't able to stay for the duration of the evening but the acts we did see were amazing and everyone was so happy, what a great bunch of young people. 

Thank you to all of the bandit team and to Jon for putting Lewis forward for the project in the first place.

Kind regards

Sirina Hyatt

 

Hi Kevin
Thank you and congratulations for another great Bandit - and it was really fun a Woodchester!
Well done to everyone involved.
I mentioned to John West last night that Charis didn't get a performer's lanyard as she was late in on Monday - do you have any spare? John said he'll drop one in to us if you had one, or I'm happy to collect from you. Charis likes them for her souvenir box!
Thanks again Kevin to you, John, Andy and all the team.
Very best wishes
Sarah L Jackson

 

Wow!

What an experience! Sam and Jake both had an incredible time this week - they were excited but quite nervous ahead of Monday, but when I picked them up each day they were absolutely buzzing! They've made new friends and can't wait for the October BandIt.

And all the hard work that was put in to the three days culminated in memorable performances at Woodchester Mansion last night. Yes, it was a difficult place to find, yes it was cold, yes it was a bit of a trek down to the mansion, yes it felt even more of a trek on the way back up afterwards..but it was a truly great event! Actually if you went to the loo enough times you began to 'feel the benefit'of being inside!! The trek down was stunning with the blue sky and sun shining through the woods. The trek back up the hill in the dark gave us a good giggle! And the journey home was much quicker and easier because we decided to ignore the SatNav and Dan's dubious 'nose' for the right route, and follow in reverse the very clear directions your Mum had given me a couple of days previously!!

Thank you so much for organising such an amazing opportunity - you and all your team put so much in to it. We couldn't believe how far they'd come in just three days. Mind blowing really.

Have a lovely weekend and a well deserved rest!

Thanks again

Susie and Dan

 

Hi Kevin,

A big thanks from Arthur (and us) for this year's Bandit - he loved every minute of it and I'm certain you'll see him at the next one... and the one after that... and the one after that... I think he's set off on the road to Rock n Roll, of which we all know there is no return. Great stuff.

Laura and Arthur will be at Maiden Hill this morning to collect the kit at 11 - 11.30 ish. Arthur will have a kit list with him.

Thanks again.

Have a good restful weekend.

Cheers,

Rob.

 

Hi Kevin,

My son, Sam Flack, took part in Bandit 2016 last week and I just wanted to get in touch to say thank you very much for organising the three days and the evening performance which was a logistical nightmare by the looks of things. He absolutely loved it and is very keen to participate in the next one in October.

Is it possible to put us on a mailing list to keep us informed about these events? Sam will no longer be taking lessons within school, so we are keen that he doesn't miss out on these activities.

Once again, thank you very much for a very enjoyable evening.

Best wishes

Jo Flack

 

Dear Kevin
I wanted to email you to say thank you so much.  We have given our kids some great life experiences but feel that nothing compares to the experience that he has with you and all your fellow teachers and volunteers at Bandit.  I can't thank you enough.  
We will definitely be back in October.
Best regards
Versha

 

Thank you so much Kevin and all your team for another amazing Bandit!! Once again Toby has had the best four days! and we had the best night out.

Thank you.

Andie Fuller.

 

Hi Kevin
Just wanted to say how magnificent Bandit Project was! The organisation feels like a well oiled machine and the two stages idea worked really well. Thank you very muchly for everything you do..I can tell it's a labour of love and a massive amount of hard work. We are so lucky to have you, Dave and all the excellent tutors willing to make this happen..you're all awesome!! Thank you again! Vanessa X

 

 

Thank you letters from Bandit 14

 

Kevin
Been meaning to email you to say thanks so much. Arun loved the week and it was so significant
for his confidence - finally he has found something that he is passionate about! I was over whelmed
with the final concert - Very moving to see Arun up there considering at the beginning of the week
he was adamant he would not go up.
Arun definitely wants to come to the next one so hopefully next time we will get to meet.
Thanks again - it was amazing.
Best regards
Versha
Versha Carter

 

Hi Kevin,

I'm Matt Davey's mum, (Matt was in the group "sustained overdrive").
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the Bandit performance last week.
The visual and sound effects were incredible, and I particularly liked the video background.
( Seeing what went on behind the scenes ).
Thank you so much for masterminding the project, and giving up your time in the Easter hols.
Matt also enjoyed the experience. (He's usually reluctant to try new things).
We won't want to miss the next event,

Regards,
Jane Davey.

 

Thanks very much once again Kev.
Louis is really improving his competence and confidence as a player and singer and I think that's
largely down to Bandit. It's a really unique opportunity for him to play in front of his peers, play a
gig to an audience, and just as importantly, listen to others. You commented on the night about the
way all the kids supported each other at the front of the stage. What a great bunch they all were!
You were right it was fantastic to see them cheering each other on. The feedback from Louis was
that this was the atmosphere at the school as well.
I think this was another superbly positive experience for Louis and both he and I can't wait for the
next one.

 

Hi Kevin,
and to all involved- a massive thank you for all the hard work, enthusiasm, compassion and
inspiration you have given Luke, our son. He loves bandit and is greatly in awe of all the tutors and
how you set it up- this year(as always) was really impressive- what an experience for all the kids,
they have no idea how lucky they are!!! keep going we are here to support you!
Kind regards, Penny, James and Luke Clemenger

 

Thanks you Letters Bandit 13

 

Hi Kev, Super show again this year. Thanks so much for organising. Louis really enjoyed himself again, and what a great experience he had!
Looking forward to next time.

Do you have a link to Bandit 13 photos yet?

Cheers

Dear Kevin

Just wanted to say thanks for another fantastic Bandit gig on Thursday - this time when I asked Douggie if he was going to go next time, it was a definite "yes"!! Seriously though, a very talented group of kids, and great direction from you and the other tutors, obviously it was an immense amount of work for you all, but it seemed as if you enjoyed it. Thanks again J

Very best wishes
Teresa Vance

 

 

Thanks You Letters Bandit 12

 

Hi Kevin

Thank you too. Luke had a fab time and will def do October. I don't suppose the big cable lead from his guitar to amp was picked up??

Please send me a link to photos of his band - the Time Travellers.

Thank you.

Emma Soares

 

Thank you Kevin. Well done!!
Would love a link to photos if poss.

Also, could I trouble you for a contact number or email for Dave Ayres... 
Cameron wanted to try to connect with Oli (they got on well in "the12")

We all really enjoyed it, especially Cameron.
Thanks Again, Cory

 

Name: Helen Hurn
Message: Hi.
I would like to thank you for another great Bandit Project. Ryan really looks foward to it every time. Please could you send me the link for the Bandit 12 photos.
Many Thanks
Helen Hurn

 

Hi Kevin

Toby had a fantastic time taking part in Bandit - thank you! It was his first one and at the end of the performance he & his band mates were already arranging to meet up again in October. We thought the evening was really well organised with great swiftness between performances - a big achievement!

While we can't lay claim to any of the lost property, we would love to see some of the photos from the night (Toby was in "No Power") so if you could send me the link to those I'd really apreciate it.

I look forward to hearing from you again soon.

Best wishes, Sarah Stacey.

 

Hi Kevin,

Thanks for the follow-up message.  Joanna really enjoyed her second Bandit project and is already talking about taking part in the next one!  We thought the last gig was so impressive and well put together.  Thanks go to you and your great team!

Can you please send me the link to the photos of the bands - thanks!

Best wishes,

Wendy

 

Hi Kevin,

Yes, would love to see the photos, please send me the link. 

Kyle had a fantastic time, look forward to seeing you in October.

Lee

 

I have been meaning to write and thank you.  Noah had such a good time at Bandit (his second time).  It is a great experience you are offering and is much appreciated.

Best wishes,

Caroline Vacara

 

Hi Kevin,

Just want to say thanks again for a great event. Louis loved it again and he is already talking about the next one. It really is fantastic walking into the school, down that corridor with the sound of drums and guitars coming out of every room and seeing all the cool kids getting together to do music. I think it's a wonderful thing you are doing. It's had quite an impact on Louis, and I have seen his musical ability and confidence grow even more this year.  

I would love to have the link to the photos if that is ok. Louis was the singer/acoustic guitarist for the '90's' themed band this time.

Cheers, and see you again in October.

Andy Guy

 

Hi Kevin, thanks very much for organising another great event!! We are interested in Bandit 13 already, I also have a flute playing daughetr as well as Rory on guitar. I wanted to develop his lead guitar playing and vocal skills, have you got any ideas? I am interested in the link to photos of his band, all best James

Thanks Again Kevin
Atticus really enjoyed it;  it gives him a real sense of occasion and an understanding of the joy and difficulties of coming together in a band! And lots more!   Him and Arthur will definitely be up for the October stint.
Thanks
Rachel Morley

 

Dear Kevin

I did put a note on your Facebook page, but just wanted to say how great we thought the whole experience was for Douggie he didn't really want to go, but (grudgingly!) enjoyed it, so we are hoping he will be coming again in October. So thank you for all your efforts, and to all the guys you had helping you - everyone was very helpful and pleasant.

Many thanks, and yes please I would like to see a photo of the whole band (No Power!_

Best wishes
Teresa

Kevin - just wanted to say a big thank you for Band12. What a positive, affirming experience for the young people. It was great to see how every group had achieved something they could be proud of and the gig at the end was done so well - it had a real positive sense of occasion where all were recognised and encouraged. You did an excellent job balancing the instruments especially as guitars can't help but turn themselves up! I thought Jason was excellent at creating an atmosphere and energy on the evening. Tom had a fab time.
Well done and thank you to all the team

Fiona

 

Hi Kev,

Thanks for Bandit - kids had brilliant time! Really loved it.

Wonder if you recorded the concert or rehearsals - our phone ran out on night. Would love a recording of it if you have anything.??

Ali Coles, Mum of Anna (in the Ancients I think), says she will be up your way tomorrow and could pick up flute stand if you could leave it in your porch. Is that poss?

If you can let me know I will tell her.

Thanks very much...

Rebecca

 

Reference Letters

 

18 February 2013
Dear Sir/Madam
Bandit Music Projects have become a highly valued part of the music calendar locally. Several Thomas Keble students have participated, some returning year on year. The projects provide the students with opportunities to work with other musicians of their own age but, more crucially, to work with a number of professional musicians. Each project results in a live performance in frount of usually large audiences.

Comments from Thomas Keble students include:
Bandit provides an opportunity for young bands to experience a professional gig.
Working with other musicians is fun and has resulted in lasting friendships
Builds team and group work skills
Has improved my confidence
Kev's a brilliant leader

I am always willing to promote Bandit Music Projects at Thomas Keble as I know their value and the enjoyment and experience my students gain from them.

Yours sincerely
Helen Copestake
Head of performing Arts

 

 

I am writing in support of the Bandit Music Projects

I have known Kevin Howlets as a musician and tutor for over ten years and we have aided the Band It
project over a number of years with gift in kind support by providing equipment and venue space for the
closing Band It performance event. SVA's involvement has always been exciting and fulfilling and we value
the band it project in terms of connecting with young adults that possibly would not have such easy access to
this type of educational activity.

The workshop programme is well organised and involves professional musicians that provide excellent out
of school activities for many young people in the easter and October breaks.
If this application is successful it can only raise the projects profile and enhance an already well organised
and inspiring workshop programme.

Yours sincerely
Jo Leahy
Director, Stroud Valley Artspace.
Stroud

 

To whom it may concern:

I am delighted that Maidenhill students have the opportunity to participate in the Bandit workshops. Students of all ages, gender and background are able to develop skills and interests under the professional guidance of adults who are committed to young people and share their own passion for music. Students from a range of local secondary and primary schools attend, thus adding to our community cohesion.

The students who take part in the Bandit workshops benefit hugely from the experience both musically and socially.

 

Mrs P Wilson
Head Teacher Maidenhill School Stonehouse

 

 

To whom it may concern:

This is to confirm that we believe the Bandit series of workshops and performances to be an extremely valuable part of the musical provision for young people in this area. They enable students to work together outside the school curriculum, meeting new faces, studying with new tutors and embarking on projects that are not necessarily possible within the constraints of the school timetable. There is also the opportunity to use and learn about equipment which may not be available in the students' home schools.

I am fully aware that many students from Archway make good use of these holiday courses and that they find them to be highly beneficial, broadening musical horizons, expanding musical language, extending technical and instrumental or vocal skills and developing composition skills. Our youngsters are unanimous in their praise for the workshops and the experiences gained therefrom.

Peter Tims
(Head of Music)

Archway School Stroud

 

19 February 2013

Dear Sir/Madam

I write in support of an application from Kevin Howlett for grant funding to support the Bandit Workshops he runs for students in the Stroud and Stonehouse area of the County.

I have known Kevin for over 5 years in my role as Headteacher at Maidenhill School in Stonehouse and now in my new role at Tewkesbury School. Kevin worked tirelessly at Maidenhill School, a successful Performing Arts School, in a strong department to enhance and enrich the educational experiences of young adults. Kevin made major contributions to that school with his technical expertise and work ethic. He frequently ran out of school activities including the Bandit workshops which ended in showcasing young talents at the Stroud Subscription Rooms. I was fortunate, on more than one occasion, to witness the fruits of his endeavours and found the experience most enjoyable.

Kevin generates well-structured opportunities for youngsters from a range of backgrounds, different schools and different skills to come together and produce a multi-media extravaganza over a short period of time.

Since moving to Tewkesbury, I have managed to secure Kevin's talents on a freelance basis and he is already making an impression on the youngsters at Tewkesbury School. I commend to you Kevin personally and all his good work and hope that you look favourably on his projects which do a great deal for the youth of Gloucestershire.

Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require more information.

Yours faithfully

Gary Watson
Headteacher Tewkesbury School

 

 

Thank you letters

 

This is just a note, rather late in the day, to congratulate you on Bandit 2012. Also to thank you. You and your team did a fantastic job and created something really special for the gig on Thursday night. What a fantastic venue. It was a wonderful week and we hope we will be allowed back next year!

best wishes,

Alex

 

Name: Brian and Pam Jenkinson
Message: Dear Kevin and team
Many thanks for another great Bandit workshop and especially last night's gig. The new venue at the Goods Shed was brilliant and much better to have the bands all set up and ready to go. Keith Allen did a brilliant job compering the event and it was good to see it supported by Patsy Gamble and John (I didn't catch his surname), doing all that amazing percussion electronic stuff!
Laura can't wait for the Easter session now!

Regards

Kevin

 

Hi Kevin

Just thought I would drop you a quick line to say a big thank you to you and the Bandit team. Harvey had a fantastic week and last night was really inspirational. I hope it felt like a success for you after all your efforts, you must be knackered.
Hope to see you at the next one.

Many regards

Paul Knowles

 

Dear Kevin

So sorry it has taken me so long to get around to sending you this email, but here goes. Lois has had a ball with you guys over the October half term and it is something she is still talking about, so, firstly, a very big thank you to you and all your colleagues for putting on such a fantastic weekend, The CD came the other week and Lois was so pleased, thanks so much for this. I would like to know if some of the photographs that were taken over the weekend are available as Lois is also keen to have some photographs of her fellow Bandit4's. Also, she would also be very interested in knowing if we can get hold of the video that was made for U and The Plastics, as she starred in both!

If there is any chance of being able to get hold of these copies, I would gladly pay, or donate as appropriate.

Hope you are looking forward to your well-earned rest over the holidays and I hope to hear from you soon.

Kind regards, Christina Hinder

Mum to future drum star, Lois Hinder!

Christina Hinder

Email: christina.hinder@parallelblue.co.uk

www.parallelblue.co.uk

 

Dear Kevin

Thank you and your team so much for a very enjoyable performance last night, and Barnaby was very grateful to have been involved, he really enjoyed the whole experience. It was obvious how much work had gone into it, so a big well done.

Please let us know if there is anything like Bandit going on at other schools that you may know of.

All the best

Rebecca Wilson

 

 

Stonehouse Town Council

Re: Bandit 3 Rock Workshop

I refer to the above and the Town Council grant made to enable young people in Town to participate in, and benefit from the opportunity to compose and make music with industry professionals.

The feedback I have received from those involved has been that they benefited greatly from the experience and as a result confidence levels have risen in those people which matches exactly the reasons the grant was made.

Congratulations to all those concerned.

Kind regards

Richard Lacey

 

 

Great job tonight - well done to all involved. Thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment and venue. The sounds and the images worked very well together.

Hope you get a break now - although I guess you thoroughly enjoyed the three days too!

Gary Watson

Head Teacher Maidenhill School

 

 

Dear Kev

It has been an absolute pleasure working with you! You have put in a fantastic amount of effort well over and above anything I would have expected. You have changed and improved the lives of hundreds of children. The Music tech has been a fantastic success because of you! The bandit project is amazing because of you! Many Many thanks for everything and very best wishes

Camilla

 

 

Dear Gary,

Just a quick e-mail to thank you and your staff for the 2 fantastic music sessions we have enjoyed this week.

The cluster G&T music tech workshop with Kevin on Tuesday was excellent! The children went back to their (10) primary schools buzzing and excited - clutching their CDs and desperate to share their music with the rest of their class. The parent who came with me was extremely impressed with the facilities, and with Kevin's thorough expertise and gentle manner. On a personal note, I haven't visited Maidenhill for 3 years - the attitudes, manners and behaviour of your students that I saw and met this week speaks volumeS.

Yesterday's visit from your Bandit students was testament to their musical skill and talent, and underlined what confident, well-mannered, articulate, thoroughly delightful young people Maidenhill produces. Our Y6s were thoroughly inspired by their music and talent. You must be very proud of them.

Yours

Fiona Arnison

Lakefield CE Primary

Head teacher

 

 

Halloween Let's rock

Teenagers took a spooky theme for their Halloween half-term rock workshop. Musical youngster who joined in the three days of artistic fun at Maidenhill School in Stonehouse wrote songs about vampires and bats. Kev Howlett a performing arts technician and organiser of the event said: "Some were rocky and others were more like the Eagles." "It's the fifth time we've done it so we called Halloween Bandit 5." A performance and party at Stroud Subscription Rooms ended the fun on Saturday night."

 

 

Getting a real buzz as we rocked the house The Citizen

Musicians in Stroud got their first taste of superstardom thanks to a recent initiative. The three-day Bandit 3 project saw young people from across the district get together to perform and compose music. After assembling as Maidenhill School during half term, the project ended with the bands involved performing at a special show at the Subscription Rooms to a crowd made up of friends and family. Organiser Kevin Howlett said this - the third since the project began - was a great success. "All of the students were so well behaved," he said. "I've had letters from parents and those who took part saying they'd like it to happen again so we're certainly hoping it will. "it's a great chance for them to extent their musicianship and to learn how to perform and be creative." He thanked all sponsors who helped stage the event. Among those who turned out for the workshops was guitarist Harry Pizzey, 12 who formed a band - The Undecided - with some friends from Marling School for the project. The friends wrote, developed and rehearsed their song called Run Away before they took to the stage. Harry, who lives in Whiteshill, told us about his experience.. "I was a little nervous about going, as I've never played in a band before, just sitting in my bedroom at home practising. "But from the very first day, it was really great, I was in band with others I know from Marling School and we got on really well. "We got lots of help in the whole process, but we had plenty of time to work on it ourselves and really make it our song. "On the last day, a team worked with us on making a film backdrop for our performance, which looked really great on stage. It felt really professional. "I loved playing on stage - I through we did really well and all that practicing paid off. "I felt a real buzz as I walked off the stage. It was great actually playing in a band, and I hope I'll be going next year. Meanwhile, back to my bedroom for lots more practice."