Editor Tom Pattinson introduces the new issue of Positive News magazine, which is out now
Anyone who has danced arm-in-arm with strangers or found solace in a lyric knows how much music matters. It carries us through heartbreak, amplifies our joy and connects us in ways that words alone cannot.
The Oct–Dec issue of Positive News magazine celebrates that spirit, while recognising the challenges facing today’s aspiring musicians. At a time when support is needed most, cuts to school funding have made it increasingly difficult for many young students to access the instruments that could inspire and empower them. But, as we uncover, a host of organisations are bringing repaired and upcycled instruments into the hands of young learners, ensuring that access to music isn’t dependent on wealth.
While learning an instrument at any age has all kinds of benefits, as reported in our news section this issue, creating a career in music has never been easy. Today’s low streaming revenues, venue closures and cost of living crisis have made things tougher still. Yet resilience prevails as foundations, charities and organisations – alongside artists themselves – are making funds and support available to the next generation of talent.
Aside from music, we visit the organisations that are taking kids out of the classroom. They’re being helped to discover the importance of getting their hands dirty – whether on farms and construction sites, or at sea. We also speak to the ‘ethical hacker’ who is opening up exciting career paths for girls in tech, and share a laugh with the comedians who are bringing smiles to new mothers.
Beyond the podiums and personal bests at the British Transplant Games lies an extraordinary legacy: these athletes run, swim and compete in honour of the donors who gave them life. Meanwhile, in the shadow of huge personal loss, Palestinians and Israelis are finding common ground. United by their unimaginable grief, bereaved families are leading a grassroots movement for peace.
The stories in this issue show how, no matter the nature of the struggle or challenge, humanity’s energy to bring about positive change is unstoppable. This music refuses to be silenced.
Cover image: Jack Roe
