AROUND 70 young, local musicians came together in Dunoon for a week of music, creativity and fun before taking to the stage for a memorable final concert last weekend.
Music Makers 2026 welcomed children from across Cowal, as well as Glasgow, Erskine, Ayrshire and Edinburgh, for this year’s event.
Organised by Dunoon music tutor Shona Wilson, the week-long camp at Kirn Primary School gave youngsters the opportunity to experience a wide range of instruments and develop their musical and performance skills with the support of professional tutors.
Children were able to try piano, guitar, drums, fiddle, percussion, recorders, xylophones and woodwind instruments, as well as singing.
Throughout the week, participants learned about rhythm, harmony, teamwork and performance skills before forming their own bands, choosing names and preparing songs to perform together.
They also worked on choreography and stage confidence ahead of the final concert, where families and supporters gathered to watch the results of just a few days of rehearsals.
The final show took place last Sunday afternoon at Dunoon’s Burgh Hall to a packed-out audience of family members, parents and carers.
Shona explained: “It was incredibly emotional and something I’ll never forget.
“Watching children who had only met a few days earlier walk onto the stage with confidence and perform as a team was amazing.
“Seeing the smiles on their faces and the pride from parents and families reminded us exactly why Music Makers exists. Every single child should be so proud of what they achieved in such a short space of time.”
The event was made possible through financial support, donations and volunteering from businesses, organisations and members of the local community.
Support was received from the National Lottery Community Fund, Western Ferries, Timothy Sharp Jewellery, Ingrams Bar, the Co-op, Iain Wilson and an anonymous sponsor, alongside Kirn Primary School and Dunoon Burgh Hall.
Shona said the backing helped provide instruments, equipment, hoodies and venues, while ensuring the camp remained accessible to as many children as possible.
She added: “The support from our local community was incredible. We’re so grateful to everyone who donated or volunteered. Their generosity helped us provide instruments, equipment, hoodies, venues and opportunities that made the camp accessible for so many children. We simply couldn’t do it without them.”
Following the success of this year’s event, Shona hopes Music Makers will return next summer with even more opportunities for young people.
She said: “Every year we learn something new and look for ways to make it even better.
“We’d love to welcome even more children, introduce new instruments and workshops, and continue giving young people the chance to experience making music together in a fun and supportive environment.”
Shona also thanked tutors Clair, Alistair, Chris, Ameilla, Ian Collison, Jason and Mrs Taylor, along with volunteers Denise, Mrs Wilson, Mr Wilson and Brian.
Thanks were also given to Michelle at Kirn Primary School, Janis for compering the final concert, the event’s sponsors, venues and the families who supported the young musicians throughout the week.
However, Shona reserved her biggest thanks for the children themselves.
She said: “Thank you to every single child who came along with enthusiasm, kindness and a willingness to give everything a go – you made Music Makers 2026 so special.
“I hope this is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see what Music Makers will achieve next year.”
