Staff Spotlight - Jake Smith

The work we do wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our staff and volunteers. This month, we’re shining a spotlight on our Music Practitioner, Jake Smith, who delivers music workshops across a wide range of SoundLincs’ projects.

1. What is your role at SoundLincs and what does that involve?

Hi, My name is Jake Smith and im a music practitioner at Soundlincs and my role is to help groups and individuals progress with/re-ignite their passion for music. I work with Social Prescription, Inside Voices, LRP & Musicare sections of Soundlincs. Through help and encouragement I try to help as many people as possible have fun and enjoy themselves

through music.

2. Why is music important to you?

Music has always been important to me, from heavy rock music from a young age to orchestra and choir work towards adulthood, music has always impacted me in a positive way. Music is one of those things for me that can make a bad day better and a good day excellent. Some of my best work has come from random thoughts throughout the day such as humming a little tune in my head, recording it and later on making it into a song or a chord progression. For me being able to have that level of flexibility with how you create music and the plethora of instruments to choose from is why I love music so much.

3. Tell us a bit about your life outside of SoundLincs.

Previous to joining Soundlincs I had a long history of being a Chef. My highest achievement was being a Head chef at an independent Neapolitan Pizzeria in Lincoln. With that said I love cooking and baking at home, always trying out new recipes and baking sweet treats for my family. I also have a love for DIY building planter boxes for my garden and shelves for my house even as far as boarding out my loft. When I'm not busy baking or building I relax with my two cats or go out and about with my little family either at a petting zoo, swimming or walking along the rivers near my house. Although I’m not currently in a band I have previously toured the UK & Europe with bands, I do like to support local music scenes and I'm always on the lookout for new band opportunities.

4. What’s one piece of advice, insight, or inspiration you’d like to share with our community?

Creativity comes in many great forms and we’re all capable of creating something.

Dyeing your hair, creating a jingle in your head, putting together a colourful outfit, tapping out a new rhythm on your desk with your fingers. All of these are forms of creativity that most people just overlook but can absolutely be developed into something greater with a little nurturing. Creativity is everywhere and it is available for everyone.

Jake Smith