Harris Trust Music Programme

After captivating audiences for years as a key member of the renowned band Frightened Rabbit, musician and songwriter Billy Kennedy has embarked on a new journey with his solo project, Haiver. He emphasises the profound impact of the Harris Trust and S.P.a.R.k.S project on his return to recording and performing, as well as its role in helping him overcome some of his own mental health and anxiety challenges.

A former student of Selkirk High School, Billy was deeply honoured to be invited to serve as the Patron of the S.P.a.R.k.S project last year. He passionately shared his extensive knowledge and experiences in all facets of the music industry, cultivated during his 16-year career as a full-time professional musician. In one-on-one sessions, Billy effectively bolstered the students' confidence and ensured that they found joy in their performances.

Billy firmly believes that project-based learning is invaluable for students and wishes such initiatives had been available during his own school years!

Graduating from the Academy of Music and Sound, Glasgow in 2023 with first class honours, he has been working professionally in the contemporary music business as a freelance musician since he was 13 years old. His band 3 out of 4 have toured Scotland and are now pushing into England. Sam has worked on music projects with Sound Cycle, Borders Young Creatives, Live Borders, CABN, Creative Scotland and Hit the Road.

Sam brings his experience of being neurodivergent to help other young people increase their confidence and sense of belonging. This is enabled through workshop- style learning and practical experiences relating to the contemporary music industry.

Her talent belies her tender years and she has shown great strength in adversity as she was not always so confident. She is bass player for 3 out of 4 and trailblazing for young female musicians in the Scottish Borders and beyond. She is delighted to be working on the S.P.a.R.K.s project and hopes to pass on some of her courage to others who might lack confidence in themselves or need help with their mental health.

Based in the Scottish Borders with an eclectic taste in music styles and genres.

Understanding the benefits to be found in writing and performing, Devin says

“I’d love to inspire pupils to harness their creativity and use their music as an outlet for self-expression. The positive environment that S.P.a.R.Ks offers is a fantastic opportunity for Borders schools. To be part of the team is very exciting.”