During this pandemic, we’re becoming increasingly aware of the best ways to stay productive with many distractions around us. Joining music groups is seen as a new way to increase productivity and re-join society after two challenging years.
I spoke to Ken Wharton-Emms, Group Leader of the University of Portsmouth Orchestra and Big Band, to find out more about the impact of these groups on student productivity in the Portsmouth area.
Q: Introduce yourself – what groups do you run in Portsmouth?
A: I did a degree in Music Technology at the University of Portsmouth, already living in Portsmouth having taking part in the Royal Marines Band Service. Once I left, I applied for a job to run the Concert Band at the university. I now run the Big Band and temporarily run the Orchestra.
Q: What kind of events are Portsmouth music groups involved in?
A: The Concert Band and Orchestra do 2 to 3 concerts each year at the Kings Church in Southsea. The Big Band tend to do pub gigs events such as weddings, although we are also going to be playing at the Victorious Festival for the second time at the end of August this year. The more concerts we do each year, the more the Music Department can be exploited.
Q: Naturally, Covid has taken a massive toll on social groups, as well as music societies. How did lockdowns etc. affect your productivity as a leader of these groups?
A: I’m a self-employed musician as well as working at the University – most of my work got pulled out from under my feet and lockdowns made it almost impossible to run the music groups. We ran things online and tried to get people to send in their own tracks from home, but there are still some people who are worried about their own safety.
Q: What are the benefits of joining a music group?
A: I think joining any of these groups is a great thing; students who have just moved away from home can meet other students in the same situation. When you join with these societies, we socialise and go for drinks sometimes, but you can also make friends.
Q: What would you say to prospective students who may be thinking about joining a music group at Portsmouth?
A: Don’t be worried about the level that you think you are – bring your instrument and come and share the experience with other students.
Ken will be acting as a Conductor at the University of Portsmouth “Darkness and Light” Showcase at Kings Church, Southsea on Saturday 14th May 2022. To book your tickets, scan the QR code on the poster below or buy tickets at the door.
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