Lewisham Vocal Collective takeover the airwaves on Radio Lewisham to talk about the impact the group and music has had on their lives.
On a recent takeover of Radio Lewisham, singers from Lewisham Vocal Collective (AKA LVC) spoke openly about their journeys, their creativity, and the role music plays in their lives. What emerged wasn’t just a discussion about singing or performance. It was a powerful, honest reflection on identity, belonging, confidence, and the transformative role that grassroots music organisations play in young people’s lives.
At a time when access to arts education is increasingly unequal, and youth services across the UK face ongoing cuts, conversations like this offer something vital, real evidence, in young people’s own words, of the impact that organisations like Lewisham Music have on individuals and communities.
Listening back, one thing is very clear, what happens in these sessions goes far beyond music.
“Music is my therapy. It always understands me.”
For many young people, music plays a much bigger role than people might expect. It’s not just about listening, it’s something they rely on emotionally, something that helps them navigate everyday life.
“Music really is like a support system for me. Having a bad day, having a good day, there’s always music.”
That idea – music as something constant, something reliable – came up again and again. Whether it’s helping them process emotions, lift their mood, or just get through a tough day at school, music is always there.
And that’s exactly why spaces like LVC matter. Because it’s not just about listening to music, it’s about having a place to make it, share it, and connect with others through it.
Starting something new can feel intimidating, especially when you don’t know anyone. That came up a lot in the conversation, those first moments of uncertainty. But what stood out was how quickly that changed.
“Everyone here is so nice, it’s kind of like a stress relief from school and exams.”
Spaces like LVC become more than just sessions. They become communities. Young people meet others who understand them, share similar interests, and create an environment where they feel comfortable being themselves. That sense of belonging is a big part of what Lewisham Music does.
Confidence looks different for everyone. For some, it’s about getting up on stage. For others, it’s about feeling secure in who they are, and often, it’s a journey.
“I was very shy, I didn’t know anybody, but now I feel like I know so many new people, I’ve really come out of my shell.”
That kind of growth happens when young people are given the space to try, to experiment, and to be supported along the way. Allowing young people to express their individuality and witnessing the creativity ooze out is what it’s all about.
One of the most exciting things about being part of a group like LVC is discovering new sides of your creativity. Young people come in with their own musical interests and backgrounds, but being in the space opens up new possibilities, new genres, new styles, new views, new ways of expressing themselves.
“There’s always something creative to do, something musical around me.”
That constant exposure to creativity encourages exploration. It allows young people to step outside what they already know and start shaping their own artistic identity.
Music today is more accessible than ever, but not always equal. With phones, apps and social media, young people can create and share music instantly. But access doesn’t always mean opportunity.
“I think it’s not difficult at all for people to get into music, but meeting the right audience is more difficult.”
That’s where spaces and organisations like Lewisham Music make a difference. Because beyond the tools, young people need support, guidance and community to really grow. We’re here make sure music is not just available, but meaningful, and accessible to everyone.
When we asked about the future, the answers were full of ambition, but also openness. Some want careers in music, others want to teach, and some simply want music to stay part of their lives. What matters is that they feel able to imagine those futures.
“I want to become an artist, produce my own songs, see how I can develop my skills.”
That confidence to think ahead, to plan, and to believe in what’s possible, that’s something we’re proud to support.
At Lewisham Music, we believe every young person should have access to music, and to spaces where they feel supported, inspired and heard. Because the impact goes far beyond learning how to sing or perform.
“It’s actually quite an important and integral part of my life.”
It’s about building confidence. Creating community. And giving young people the chance to find their voice, and use it. And that’s why spaces like Lewisham Vocal Collective matter.
The LVC takeover is a reminder that behind every programme, every rehearsal, every performance, there are real lives being shaped. Young people who arrive nervous and unsure, and leave confident and connected. Young people who discover not just music, but themselves.
