Alex is volunteering on the Without Borders music project for young people from the global diaspora who are aged 13 – 18. Within the project, the group of young people are developing a band.
The Without Borders project is part of our partnership with Band on the Wall, a two-year project funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund that celebrates the musical traditions of Greater Manchester’s new migrant communities, including those who have experienced displacement and forced migration.
With roots in south-west London and Edinburgh, Alex is a third-year degree student at the RNCM, where he studies piano and keys.
In addition to his instrumental studies, Alex is a choral singer and a member of the National Youth Choir and the RNCM Chamber Choir.
Working alongside the Without Borders Music Leader, Sanja Govorcin and Katherine Rogers, CAN’s Senior Creative Producer, Alex brings a wide-ranging musical experience to the project.
What does a typical Without Borders session look like?
My role with the group is really broad. I play the piano myself with the group, and, most importantly, I support the group with their piano playing, as I have a bit of experience with the bass guitar and a very surface-level knowledge of drums and guitar. It means we can run fun sectionals and get everyone involved. I can support the group with piano playing, helping them learn chord shapes and how best to play melodies. This different musical experience means I can help Sanja and Katherine get everyone involved.
How do you work with Sanja Without Borders’ Music Leader?
I follow Sanja’s lead; when she wants to work with singers, I can work with the instrumentalists. I listen when we’re playing songs to see if I can jump in and help refine the playing or teach something new. I can help the group with writing when ideas run dry, but they seldom do because they are so creative and enthusiastic.
Why is the Without Borders project important?
We’ve created a safe space away from school or whatever pressures you’re experiencing. Music is a tremendous way to develop self-knowledge and work within group dynamics. A big part of playing in a band is listening carefully, being aware of what’s around you, not overplaying or drowning out others, but still fulfilling your role. It’s a tricky thing to learn. I love seeing the group develop new ideas, explore their creativity and learn new skills.
What are you learning from the project?
I think the project is very important, and on a personal level, I’ve learned so much about each young person and their circumstances, including being displaced and forced to move from their original homes by war and conflict. It’s brought home my privilege as someone who hasn’t been affected by division and conflict and probably never will be.
It means a lot to me that I can add something to the project and support young people in their musical journeys.
How will this volunteering help you with your future plans?
I was looking for volunteering opportunities where I could practise leadership and support younger musicians. This is something that I’m interested in in my future career. I’m incredibly grateful for the wonderful teachers and volunteers who brought music into my life, and I’ve always wanted to give something back.
Thanks so much, Alex; we really appreciate your volunteering with us.
We can’t wait to see the band progress and hear them at the two showcases in June 2025, during the Horizons Festival.
