Letters
After every project the letters roll in — from parents, from kids, from head teachers. These are real, lightly trimmed for length, and they say it better than we ever could.
From Bandit families
What you put on with Bandit really is remarkable. For the second year I've been in awe of how well you gather so many children, facilitate them, and bring out their self-motivation, social abilities and confidence.
It's like a crash course in being good humans and figuring out who you are. I hope you're aware of how special it is.
MathewBandit parent
I wanted to say a HUGE thank you for all the support you have given Stanley over all of his Bandits. Stanley is a different person doing Bandit — if you knew the anxiety he has experienced you would be amazed he can come and do what he does with you. It has been a really positive part of his life.
Rachel & Lee
I was close to tears throughout watching the gig, especially the way the older kids supported the younger kids. The standard was incredible. Most schools would put on a show not much more complex than the introduction, and they'd practise once a week all term to get there. You managed that AND every group making their own composition. In three days — and then they're performing. Wow.
Over the years my son has been doing this, I've seen his confidence and capability blossom. It's very special. Hats off!
AdamMarley's dad
A huge thank you once again to you and all the Bandit staff for making another cracking Bandit. The boys have done a few now but last night felt like one of the really good ones. It's such a special and rare thing and we're so grateful our boys have this experience.
KateMum of Dan & Seb, 'Graffety'
Laurie is not the most confident of children, so it has taken a few efforts to get him to join you. This said, he instantly felt welcomed, comfortable and happy. Both myself and my wife felt humbled and an overwhelming amount of pride at the live show — not just because he was on stage, but that he was part of a brilliant production and an incredibly supportive group of people.
Abbie, Rob & Laurie
Thank you for another incredible week for my kids! They all just love it. Ben has already counted out the number of Bandits he can do before leaving school!!! Hilarious.
Jo & David
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."
AnnieMum of Cooper (11) & Zach (10)
Dolly turned up on Monday not knowing anyone except her drum teacher, and finished up performing on Thursday evening at the Subs with her band. She was looked after so well and her confidence in her own talent grew day by day. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, and she will definitely be taking part again.
Cathryn & Kev Hall
Bandit has given Louis incredible confidence in playing live. His band, Drifted, formed at Bandit about 18 months ago and they now get together every week to practise and write more songs. They've gone on to play venues across Gloucestershire — all this would not have happened if it weren't for Bandit, so deep, deep gratitude to you all.
Gillian
It really is the highlight of the year for Lorcan and is such an amazing experience for all those young musicians. The final show is incredible, so well put together, and it's fantastic to see them all up there having a great time. We also loved seeing you perform!
Katherine McCarthy
It was so great to see all the youngsters enjoying their performances on a proper stage and it really did feel like a good night out. I loved watching the youngsters supporting each other and being a fantastically appreciative audience for the other bands.
Katy
Arun loved the week and it was so significant for his confidence — finally he has found something that he is passionate about! I was overwhelmed by 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.
Versha
What an experience! Sam and Jake were excited but quite nervous ahead of Monday, but when I picked them up each day they were absolutely buzzing! We couldn't believe how far they'd come in just three days. Mind-blowing really.
Susie & Dan
He went from "I can't perform" to coming off stage and saying "when can I do it again?" So very, very proud of him. My dad, who is a professional musician himself, is thrilled to bits with the results. You've given him a confidence he's never had before.
TachaHenry's mum
It's a highlight of the year for Finn and Maia, they love it!! All the tutors and helpers are great. Finn brought a friend this week and he's a convert now too.
Elinor
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. It's had quite an impact on Louis — I have seen his musical ability and confidence grow even more this year.
Andy Guy
Thank you so much for all you do. It's such a fantastic opportunity — and not just for the youth of Stroud, they come from so far! Thank you, you are amazing!
Kerry
We have given our kids some great life experiences, but feel that nothing compares to the experience he has with you and all your fellow teachers and volunteers at Bandit. I can't thank you enough.
Versha
From the schools
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. The students who take part benefit hugely from the experience, both musically and socially.
Mrs P WilsonFormer Head Teacher, Maidenhill School
Bandit Music Projects have become a highly valued part of the music calendar locally. Comments from our students include: "Bandit provides an opportunity for young bands to experience a professional gig", "it has improved my confidence", and "Kev's a brilliant leader". I am always willing to promote Bandit as I know its value.
Helen CopestakeHead of Performing Arts, Thomas Keble School
These workshops broaden musical horizons, expand musical language, extend technical, instrumental and vocal skills and develop composition skills. Our youngsters are unanimous in their praise.
Peter TimsHead of Music, Archway School
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. I commend Kevin personally and all his good work, which does a great deal for the youth of Gloucestershire.
Gary WatsonFormer Headteacher, Tewkesbury School
You have changed and improved the lives of hundreds of children. The Bandit project is amazing because of you!
CamillaTeaching colleague
We value the Bandit project in terms of connecting with young adults who possibly would not have such easy access to this type of educational activity. Well organised, involving professional musicians, and providing excellent out-of-school activities for many young people.
Jo LeahyDirector, Stroud Valleys Artspace
In the press
"From the very first day it was really great... On the last day, a team worked with us on making a film backdrop for our performance. It felt really professional. I loved playing on stage — I felt a real buzz as I walked off. It was great actually playing in a band."
Harry, 12 — interviewed in The Citizen
"Musicians in Stroud got their first taste of superstardom... young people from across the district got together to perform and compose music, ending with a special show at the Subscription Rooms."
The Citizen
"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 — which matches exactly the reasons the grant was made."
Richard Lacey — Stonehouse Town Council