A former Bury College music enthusiast features on a single which has been released to raise essential funds for singing groups in Bury who support families living with dementia.

Matthew Woodman is proud to sing in the hit single ‘Sing Me A Memory’, which was written and produced by his father, Manchester-based singer-songwriter, David Woodman. The song was recorded during the Covid-19 lockdown period and features three generations of the Woodman family, as well as other professional musician friends including award-winning Northern Irish songwriter Duke Special and renowned session drummer, Terl Bryant.

Matthew secured A-levels in Psychology, History and Music Technology during his time at Bury College and progressed onto Manchester Metropolitan University to study Psychology. Matthew is now completing a master’s degree in Clinical Skills Within Integrative Psychotherapy also at Manchester Metropolitan University and is working hard to secure a career within Music Therapy.

Matthew believes his time at Bury College studying both Music Technology and Psychology inspired him to explore the opportunities within Music Therapy and how the power of music can support people. The newly released song is a celebration of the therapeutic benefits of music and friendship, especially for those living with dementia and Matthew is delighted to have been part of such a powerful song.

The former Holy Family RC & CE College pupil said, “I’m so proud to be part of a project that will be raising money for a great cause while also being able to collaborate with some of my favourite musicians! My confidence to perform and my interest in psychological conditions started at Bury College and grew into the career path that I’m aiming for now. I can’t thank the college enough for their support during my studies and onwards.”

David Woodman commented, “Over recent years I've seen good friends coping with the effects of dementia, witnessed the amazing love and support of their loved ones, and seen how they all find solace in music. Most of us connect with music in a profound way, we hear a song we love and we're transported back to a particular time and place. I wrote the song inspired by that really – music is a time machine.”

To download the single and donate please visit www.tinyurl.com/singmeamemory

All proceeds of sales will be donated towards Musical Memories and Reminis-Sing, which are two singing groups in Bury who work extremely hard to support people living with dementia and their carers.