AN online group where musicians and singers can help keep residents in Teesdale entertained and provide an outlet for them to perform has attracted more than 1,300 members.
The group, Barney Musicians Share, was set up by former Barnard Castle resident Louise Beagle to help keep people’s spirits up during the lockdown.
Miss Beagle said: “My partner Darren [Stubley] has performed for years and is also Barney born and bred. I’ve always thought of myself as a roadie and a bedroom or bathroom performer. But I got the courage up six months ago to perform and I loved doing it.
“One thing you find with a lot of musicians and singers is they may have a lot of followers or fans, but they are separate and I thought this was a great way to bring them together.”
The idea has been a big hit, with lots of artists posting videos of their performances covering pop, rock, folk and musicals.
Miss Beagle added: “I may have set up the group, but it is everyone who has contributed that has made it. It is a really scary time for everyone at the moment.
“Overnight our night time economy ended the artists and musicians in and around the town came to an abrupt end.
“Social media has given us all the ability to share and have our music continue to light up even in the darkest times. We have some incredible musicians in our area.”
As well as professional singers and musicians the group has attracted many regular open mic performers to share their interpretations and even a few residents who have never performed publically to give it a go.
Barnard Castle resident and a regular open mic attendee James Dykes said: “It’s been great.
“One thing musicians crave is an audience and they love to get feedback. This Facebook group is great for that. People can like, love share their comment, which is wonderful.
“It is lovely to see people who have never picked up an instrument or sung in public having a go.
“I’m trying to post every day and I have delved into musicals a little
Anyone who wants to join the group to either post their own home music videos, or just to be entertained, can find it at https://www.facebook.com/groups/530272061212682/.
