Pee Wee Ellis was back in school
It was the greatest honour to welcome back to The Charter School international musicians of world renown. Pee Wee Ellis (sax), Mamadou Sarr (djembe), Diabel Cissikho (kora), Ramon Goose (gtr), have led six days of workshops, creating original material which was performed on 14th July at a gig in our very own school hall.
Pee Wee brought his backing rhythm section! This was an amazing privilege for the Music Department, staff and pupils. It was a fantastic evening.
Here is what the great man himself said.
Hi Betsan,
I've thought about the time we had there with the students and the great staff, and i feel so good about the whole project. But to see that transformation, from day one, the first meeting and learning the names, pairing up with instrument and skill levels, letting them find themselves in a group of their on making, I've got to tell you, it wells me up to realize the end results we achieved together.
You have some bright moments to look forward to from this lot... And I hope I can find a way to take advantage of your offer to borrow some 11 to 17 year olds for a good project one day.
Please let everyone know I have very fond memories of my time at "Charter School', and would do it again in a heart beat....
We're in Helsinki today, Denmark yesterday and Stockholm in a couple days. The show is going brilliantly and being well received. Thanks again for all the kindness shown to all of us...
All the best to all of you,
Pee Wee
Last Modified: 18/09/2009
