A NEW community music initiative is set to bring people together, support wellbeing, and celebrate local talent across the Wiveliscombe area, also taking in Wellington and its surrounds.

Together in Tone is a community-led project which uses the power of music to reduce isolation, strengthen connections, and improve wellbeing for people of all ages and backgrounds.

The project is funded through the Community Health and Wellbeing programme by the Somerset Association of Local Councils and is delivered in partnership by Somerset Council’s Wellington and Wiveliscombe local community network, Wellington Town Council, and Actiontrack.

At its heart, Together in Tone is about building on the rich and varied music activity already happening locally.

The project will connect choirs, bands, musicians, and community groups, while creating new opportunities for people to become involved in ways which feel welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure.

By listening to local communities and working collaboratively, the project will explore how music can reach those who may not currently be taking part, ensuring opportunities are accessible and shaped by the people they are for.

The project aims to:

Somerset executive Cllr Graham Oakes said: “Music has a unique ability to bring people together and support our mental and emotional wellbeing.

“Together in Tone is a great example of how communities can build connections, reduce isolation, and create a real sense of belonging.

“It is about making wellbeing accessible through something positive, creative, and rooted in the community, and we are proud to support that.”

Wellington Town Council community development officer Laura Batcha said: “Together in Tone is a strong example of how partnership working at a local level can support both community wellbeing and cultural activity.

“By working collaboratively across the local community network, we are not only celebrating the strength of our local music scene but also creating more inclusive opportunities for residents to engage, connect, and support their wellbeing.

“This kind of preventative, community-led approach is exactly what we need to see more of, aligning closely with wider health priorities around early intervention and reducing isolation.”

Together in Tone is open to community choirs, bands, music groups, freelance musicians, organisations using music to support wellbeing, community venues, and anybody interested in using music to connect people.

The project is co-ordinated by Caz Besterman, an experienced community music practitioner and educator with a passion for using music to bring people together.

Since moving to Somerset, Ms Besterman has become an active part of the local music scene and is keen to work alongside existing groups to support collaboration and develop opportunities which feel realistic, inclusive, and community-led.

Local groups, musicians, venues, and organisations are being encouraged to become involved and help shape the project.

More information on opportunities to take part in Together in Tone is available by emailing [email protected].