Pride Anthem
This new Pride Anthem was created entirely by members of Stockport LGBT+ PLUS Spectrum. With support from Amina Hussain, Keith Doran and Ben Hudson, they wrote the lyrics and melodies, planned the rhythm section, selected the musical style and edited the song structure.
Over four sessions, at Stockport Library and Manchester Central Library, the group began by sharing their stories and using percussion instruments to freely improvise how they were feeling. From those initial explorations, key aspects of their individual and shared experiences were explored and structured into a journey.
To love and to be loved, it was agreed, is such an important part of what it is to be human, and this became the driving force in crafting the message the group wanted to pass on to others struggling to reconcile differences of identity. The lyrics show strength and resilience and encourage everyone listening not to be afraid, but to spread their wings of freedom.
The lyrics of Wings of Freedom reflect the group`s own journeys. Challenged by society`s expectations, they`ve ultimately risen up, finding acceptance in themselves and others to live their lives the way they want to.
Stockport LGBT+ PLUS spectrum
Stockport LGBT+ PLUS Spectrum supports LGBTQ+ members who also identify as neurodiverse and/or pan-disabled. Awareness of neurodiversity and pan-disability within the LGBTQ+ community is growing, but there is still a lack of dedicated support groups out there. This group enables those who can identify to network with other like-minded people, encouraging each other to share ideas and experiences. Creating accessible social networking opportunities along with fun and engaging activities will gradually build the self-confidence required to step into new social environments.
Amina Hussain
Amina is principal flute of Manchester Camerata and Carrot Productions and a registered music therapist. Amina uses music as a tool for social change through creative, improvisatory and music therapy techniques, and is co-director of String of Hearts, a music-making-on-prescription service helping isolated participants to reshape their place in society in the wake of the pandemic.
