"My daughter had an opportunity to perform yesterday supporting a local choir who had asked her piano teacher if there were some young performers that could help fill their evening. It was the first time we have seen her perform a whole song on her own with a mic and audience. She was anxious before it, but we were so proud of what she achieved. I really believe the skills she has gained from attending UVG helped her stand up on that stage last night. Thank you!" Parent
“UVG is a very fun great way to make new friends and a great community Taking part lifts my mood because it’s a nice supportive environment that'll help you build confidence every step of the way” - UVG Singer
“The UVG is a place where I don’t worry about my
self-confidence, I can do anything there and I’m not scared”
“UVG has helped me grow as a person, singer, musician and a performer. I have gained so much confidence, experience, opportunities and a family. It’s crazy to think that I’ve only been there for 10 months! I’ve done many gigs, recorded an EP, attended a song writing course, recorded and performed a song I co-wrote, saw behind the scenes of the UVG on work experience, performed at The Wedge and so so much more! Never would I have had the opportunity to do anything as brilliant as that with all these people! Anyone that loves to sing (even if it’s to your mirror when your parents aren’t in ?) I suggest should at least try it for one session! I want people to have the same opportunities I have had and will have! Thank you” – UVG young singer
“I am quite a private person but I just wanted to say that I think the work that you do is outstanding. Recently new to the group and introduced to it by a friend, singing and music I’m finding is definitely good therapy in what is one of the most difficult and saddest times in life having recently lost my mum to Alzheimers after a 5 year battle. Singing at Victorious, meeting new people and the weekly sessions which are fun and filled with laughter, have without a doubt lifted my confidence. To top this we contribute to a children’s charity which is just perfect. Many many thanks for your tireless work. You are making a real difference in my life, and no doubt the lives of others, for that I cannot thank you enough” – AUVG singer
“My son suffers from anxiety, which was diagnosed just over 2 years ago. Since he started at UVG earlier in the year, we have seen his confidence go from strength to strength. …the UVG has played a huge part in his progress & for that I am eternally grateful!” – Parent of UVG singer
“I have only been at UVG a few months now but already my confidence has shot through the roof!”
“My son has autism and finds it very difficult to try new things and make friends. This is the first activity that he has attended with neuro typical young people…and has accepted his needs and giving him all the support that they can.” – Parent of UVG singer
“UVG is important to me because in the past I haven’t had many friends and have been bullied in school and outside clubs but now I have so many new friends and I’m just happier and my confidence has grown”
“UVG are a credit to all the team that support
these young singers”
"Yesterday was my second week of coming to UVG and I’m so grateful that a friend recommended it to me. It’s nice to have a group of people who are committed like I am. I love it!”
“Anything which enables children to fulfil their potential in a safe and supportive environment deserves recognition, however The UVG provide this at no cost. I would not have been able to afford for my child to receive vocal coaching and access to true professionals. There are no barriers to The UVG and that makes the group even more special” – Parent of UVG singer
“Yesterday was my second week of coming to UVG and I’m so grateful that a friend recommended it to me. It’s nice to have a group of people who are committed like I am. I love it!”
“Anything which enables children to fulfil their potential in a safe and supportive environment deserves recognition, however The UVG provide this at no cost. I would not have been able to afford for my child to receive vocal coaching and access to true professionals. There are no barriers to The UVG and that makes the group even more special” – Parent of UVG singer
“Part of the reason I love UVG is the fact that so many children with a scope of capabilities can access it, no matter the back ground and that for many it is a sanctuary where they can be “normal” and forget whatever problems may be bothering them” – Parent of UVG singer
“Just got in from the second session at the guild hall it was great everyone is so welcoming and cheery and Happy !! Can’t wait to go back”
“UVG is also about developing young adults into well rounded musicians no matter the style”
“U all work amazingly to bring it all together, without you guys most of the kids that performed tonight would never have had the confidence to get up there and perform solos! Amazing bunch who cherish amazing kids! – Parent of UVG Singer
“…you’ve changed so many lives with what you all do x The confidence shines out in every singer”
“I am so proud to be part of a fab group of people that love our children so much. You were all incredible!
Not only that but you all helped [my daughter] tonight, by being her friend or someone she looks up to! She did fantastically well and in part, that is down to all of you. Thank you!” – AUVG singer and Parent of UVG singer
Thank you Uvg so much for putting so many smiles on so many children's faces for making what was a dream a reality for so many of them every week! - Parent of UVG member
For any young person, this is a place that provides a warm welcome, a friendly atmosphere and someone to talk to if you need to, somewhere you can escape too if life isn't dealing you with the best cards - UVG singer
“The charity or UVG family as it’s known from the inside, has provided our boy’s & many more young people with a lifeline in difficult times.. A place they can be themselves & so much opportunity to grow as people and as artists!”
“You are doing a fantastic job with the kids and you have sent over more talent then most casting agencies I have been speaking too” Dwayne Eaton – Assistant Producer ITV Studios
“Its a pleasure to donate to a charity where I can really see where my donation goes."This is a worthwhile charity especially as it offers children a place of safety and enjoyment instead of being bored on the streets or sometimes at home without contact with other people in a social environment” – Parent of UVG singer
“My Daughter has just left year 6 of her primary school, where, for the most part she has been successful in every aspect, whether it be social or education itself. It wasn’t until the curriculum came into play that she really struggled. In year 5 she was tested for dyslexia and it was noted she was borderline. She was always popular but around 2/3rds into year 6, children around her began picking on her. She was head girl, had many friends and was a popular, well rounded, polite girl. She took this bullying all in her stride and was able to talk openly and confidentialy with adults about this. Inside and outside of school. She didn’t let it phase her. For two consecutive days she even sat alone to eat lunch and just carried on. I believe that this is, in part, down to UVG and the confidence and maturity she has gained by being part of such a fantastic group. She loves it. I love it. We all love it – UVG Parent AUVG singer
What an amazing evening of young,local talent . UVG you are fantastic! All original material and performed with such professionalism! These young people are a credit to the community! Next time you pass a “kid ” with a hoody on , a piercing/ tattoo or a baseball cap on back to front. Give them a chance and don’t paint them all with the same brush! There are some amazing young people out there just wanting to show you what their made of. Give young talent a chance and support our next generation . You might just be surprised! – UVG Parent and AUVG singer
5 years I’ve spent with this group. Such an amazing group of people and young talent. Like I said last year we are one big family. This group has given me so much and I strongly suggest you give it a try. Thanks to everyone who is involved with running, organising, and everything else that is UVG, none of us would be the same without this amazing free to access group. It’s effected all of us so thank you. – UVG singer
“HIWCF were happy to take a chance and fund the UVG in its early development and we are delighted that this investment in young people has been so successful. I was blown away by the amazing talent of these young people. Every single one of them gave their very best and were brilliant”
Toni Shaw – Chief Executive of Hampshire and Isle Of Wight Community Foundation
“The Urban Vocal Group is a really special music charity attracting a diverse group from across the educational and social spectrum. I do believe that participating in the Arts provides a tool for developing vocational skills and aspiration in young people. Many of these young people face considerable disadvantages, but with the encouragement of this Group, some of them have gone on to study music at college or embark on music careers. The Urban Vocal Group appears to be growing in strength, and I am looking forward to my visit early next year to observe them in action for myself and meeting those involved”
David Willets – Minister of State for Universities and Science 2010 – 2014
