NOTE: This scheme was originally set up in 2021 in response to Afghanistan Crisis through collaborative work with www.icfam.info. Due to musicians in asylum seeking & refugee status from other countries reaching out to us, we have expanded supporting people from many countries wishing to avail of support through music & arts. In addition adults and children wishing to engage in creative activities for mental health, learning English and opportunities to meet other communities. A guitar club has recently been set up with people kindly donating guitars.
BBC Radio (John Toal Show) Feature
BBC (Ciaran McCauley Editorial)
BBC Article "world is crazy but music helps me survive"
UTV Ukrainian musician raising her voice in Belfast
A special thanks to Gary Lightbody Foundation, Lottery Community Fund, Danelectro Guitars, Human Kind Foundation, Arts Council Northern Ireland, Community Relations Council and all those who have donated. Donate here
“We’re amazed at what you are doing in response to the Afghan Crisis and the refugees from different countries arriving to our shores. Even though we may speak different languages, have different cultures, we all can speak the language of music – something which is far more powerful than any lines in the sand. As an organization we are delighted to be a part of it in a small way." Tom - UK distributor for Danelectro
Afghanistan Page (with links to past, present future information)
Expression of intererest form (Arts Organisations Hosting a Placement)
Register of interest form (Hosting Person/s Accommodation)
MARRS is managed by volunteers but there are ongoing logistic costs to meet the needs of those we are helping. You can donate HERE
To donate a guitar to the Guitar Club contact leif@rocknrollworkshop.com We are also accepting all types of music instruments and arts materials.
MARRS aims to
The Arts Council of Northern Ireland and members of ICFAM have been assisting communication and lobbying regarding MARRS
