Playwright Lee Hall and musician Sting have provided extra funding towards the In Harmony NewcastleGateshead project that aims to inspire and transform the lives of children in deprived communities, using the power and disciplines of orchestral music-making. The Sage Gateshead was chosen to lead the three year regional project working with Hawthorn Primary School in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. Based on the principles of Venezuela’s inspirational* El Sistema* – which produced the world famous Simón Bolivar Symphony Orchestra – the project will give every child in the school access to a musical instrument and music tutors on a daily basis. In order to deliver the sessions regularly, the school requires extra space to be able to house rehearsals and workshops...

Gerry Richardson's Big Idea is a dynamic nine-piece Hammond organ based band exploring the jazz organ genre to the max! Soul, Gospel, Funk, Swing and Samba are all part of the mix. Add to that some kicking original tunes, many written as tributes to the legendary jazz and soul musicians who have inspired Gerry throughout his career and you get an unbeatable format for a great nights' music. Speaking of the Big Idea's 'Cooking At The Cluny' album, Sting said "Turn up the album loud enough for your neighbours to hear, imagine yourself in a steamy, heaving club in Newcastle and let the warm currents of music wash over you, soothe your body and nourish your soul. Enjoy!". Tickets are available for what promises to be a terrific night at thesagegateshead.org/event/gerry-richardson/...