Shared Stories 2025: Young Voices Uncover Bradford's History Through Music and Poetry
- Allstar Admin
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read

We're excited to share the latest developments in our "History In The Making" programme, a captivating initiative proudly supported by Historic England. This project empowers young, underrepresented musicians and spoken word artists to explore and spotlight the overlooked musical and cultural histories of the Bradford district, all driven by their unique perspectives.
Shipley College Students Dive into Bradford's Past Through Sound
We're currently delivering a programme with music students from Shipley College. These sessions have provided a fantastic opportunity for the students to uncover the rich history of Bradford's World Heritage Site, Saltaire, and its broader industrial heritage. This discovery and research phase is now fuelling their creativity as they begin to write original music tracks that share their learning and interpretations. One particularly exciting group is even developing a track about The Underground, a local music venue that holds significant cultural importance for them. To equip them with the necessary skills, the sessions have also deconstructed song writing techniques, which the students are now applying to their own original compositions.

Belle Vue Girls Academy Explores Meaningful Local Sites
A vibrant programme has also been taking place at Belle Vue Girls Academy. The learners have been actively exploring and identifying the sites that hold particular interest and significance for them within Bradford. The diverse list of locations they've chosen to focus on includes:
Lister Park
Lister Mills
The Alhambra
Cannon Mills
Kirkgate Centre
Bradford Library
Belle Vue Girls' School itself
Bradford City Hall,
The Science and Media Museum
St George's Hall
Leeds Road
Peel Park
Bradford Interchange.
The learners have also participated in creative writing workshops, focusing on different literary devices they can use to craft compelling spoken word pieces.
Spoken Word Artists Connect Personal Narratives with Place
Our work with a talented team of young spoken word artists is also progressing well. These young creatives have selected key locations that resonate with them and that they wish to feature in their project. These include The Bolton Woods Community Centre, the iconic Wool Exchange in Bradford, and various parks across the district. They are delving into the history and atmosphere of these places to inspire their spoken word performances.
Fusing Creativity with Heritage
Our "History In The Making" programme is beautifully fusing the creativity of young people with the rich history and heritage of Bradford. We are incredibly excited to witness the unique and personal interpretations that will emerge from these young musicians and spoken word artists as they bring their projects to life.
Stay tuned for more updates on their creative journeys!
Find out more about the "History In The Making" programme supported by Historic
England here:

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