'Changing Tunes' charity celebrates 30th anniversary at HMP Bristol

For 30 years, the musical charity Changing Tunes has enabled prisoners to tap into their creativity and emotions in 16 prisons across the UK. Today at HMP Bristol, the charity brought together ex-prisoners and Changing Tunes musicians to celebrate not only this milestone anniversary, but also the charities’ partnership with the prison.  Changing Tunes’ CEO Lizzie Bond, HMP Bristol Governor Steve Cross and the charities’ Founder, Richard Pendlebury were joined by the Lord-Lieutenant and a number of VIPs from around the city and county. HMP Bristol’s Changing Tunes five-piece prisoner group, led by Rob Davies, Musician in Residence, performed a number of well-known songs to which the audience tapped their feet and joined in the singing.  The atmosphere was in marked contract to normal prison life.  Musician and songwriter Arty, an ex-prisoner whom the charity met inside 10 years ago, spoke eloquently about his life and how through music he was able to express his emotions.  He performed his own songs containing heartfelt lyrics and striking melodies. 

The charity Changing Tunes, working in prisons and their communities post-release, has gone from strength to strength, helping people live a life after prison that is free from crime and full of meaning and purpose.  Changing Tunes will be continuing the celebrations with a 30th Anniversary Concert on October 21st at Redland Parish Church, Bristol (tickets on sale via their website) and will also be releasing a 30th Anniversary album entitled ‘Thirty’. This will be a special compilation featuring ex-prisoners in partnership with Billy Bragg and Frank Turner, and will be available to buy at the concert. All proceeds will go directly to the charity to help them continue their work.

 Tickets are available to buy on the Changing Tunes website at www.changingtunes.org.uk