Zest Brings Out The Best
Our participants connect with one another through song
We understand the magic of music here at Bright Shadow, and we’ve been developing a number of different musical projects lately. Today we’re celebrating our recent Zest choir project, developed with singer-songwriter and Bright Shadow artist, Emily Watts. Every week, each group got together to explore the power of song, using video to collaborate with fellow Zest groups across Kent, responding to and building on everybody’s experiences. The project culminated in a performance of our Zest song, Zest Brings Out The Best.
“Zest brings out the best in you
It’s true
We matter and so do you”
Zest Brings Out the Best started life in 2024, when Emily worked carefully with each group to reflect on the essence of our weekly Zest groups, using songwriting to connect each group in a truly collaborative effort. Emily’s sessions were, as usual, filled with music, laughter and discussions of favourite musical artists. Each group worked closely with Emily to weave their Zest experiences through the song. The groups then welcomed producer Jack Gourlay to record the track, blending group, male, and female voices, and embracing powerful solo performances. We are excited to share this recording with you today.
As Volunteers’ Week draws to a close, we’d also like to take this opportunity to highlight the role of our volunteers in bringing these projects to life. Extra special thanks go to Echo in Whitstable and Alwyn in Hythe for supporting the development and recording of Zest Brings Out The Best; and Carole and Lee in Medway, Echo and Karen in Whitstable, Paula in Deal, and Alwyn, Niamh and Trudy in Hythe for supporting our Zest choir projects.
