WE NEED MUSIC CIC
Inclusive music making and interactive listening opportunities aimed at connecting people; enabling creativity; and building self esteem and confidence
Our Values
Creativity - Curiosity - Community
Our Mission
To create inclusive music making and interactive listening opportunities aimed at connecting people; enabling creativity and expression; and building self and esteem and confidence
Our Vision
Connected communities where people feel free to express and explore their innate creativity
Our Story
Lyndon and Laura Forster have been passionate musicians and dedicated music leaders for many years, using the power of music to connect and inspire people from all walks of life. In 2020, they founded We Need Music CIC, a social enterprise with a mission to reinvest profits into creating vibrant, community focused music making opportunities. Since its inception, We Need Music has engaged thousands of children and adults across a wide range of settings, fostering creativity and connection through music. Along the way, they’ve been privileged to collaborate with incredible organisations and have received generous support from Devon and Torbay Music Education Hub and Youth Music to further their work.
This year, the team is thrilled to welcome three new Directors, each bringing unique skills and perspectives to help grow and enrich our shared mission. Together, we look forward to reaching even more people through the joy of music.
Meet The Team
Laura Forster
Founding Director and Music Leader
Laura is a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and experienced music leader with a passion for making music accessible to all. Over the past years, she has run youth music projects and worked as a freelance music practitioner, facilitating workshops for young people facing a range of challenging circumstances. Laura holds an MA in Youth and Community Work and has collaborated with renowned organisations, including the BBC, the Philharmonia Orchestra and the Bath Philarmonia.
In recent years, Laura has expanded her work to include singing, songwriting, instrumental music, and music technology in diverse settings such as CAMHS units, Pupil Referral Units, young women’s groups, and young parent and baby projects. She is particularly inspired by supporting new families, helping parents and their young children explore the joys of music together.
Laura brings warmth, creativity, and a nurturing approach to every session, fostering connection and self-expression through the universal language of music.
Lyndon Forster
Founding Director and Music Leader
Lyndon spent his childhood and early adolescence living in several African countries and developed a deep love for the region’s varied and vibrant musical traditions. Throughout his twenties, Lyndon honed his percussion skills under the mentorship of Senegalese Master Drummer Cheikh Diop. He has spent the past 20 years performing and teaching percussion in various forms.
In 2015 he embarked on a new musical journey with the handpan, drawn to its ethereal tones. Lyndon spent two years freelancing with PanAmor Handpans, helping to craft these beautiful instruments. His passion for sharing music has led him to work extensively with adults with special educational needs and mental health challenges.
Through Pankind, his primary project under We Need Music CIC, Lyndon has facilitates workshops and performances across diverse settings, from early years education and schools to secure psychiatric facilities and end-of-life care. His sessions radiate warmth, creativity, and connection, bringing music to life for all.
