Project Summary

U-Band is a community ensemble based in Woodside, Aberdeen, bringing people together through the shared experience of music and cultural celebration. Awarded £3,000 through the UDECIDE participatory budgeting programme, this initiative supports the formation and ongoing activity of a community band that introduces residents to Ukrainian song, culture and performance. 

The project aligns with the Locality Plan priority to support ESOL (English as a Second Language) families to access services and community activities, helping bridge cultural divides and strengthen social inclusion. 

What Was Funded

The £3,000 grant helped to:

• Support the establishment and rehearsal sessions of U-Band as an inclusive musical group.
• Provide equipment, materials and organisational support needed for band activities.
• Enable planned performances and community events where music and culture can be shared with residents across Aberdeen.
• Foster participation from both Ukrainian-linked community members and wider local residents through creative collaboration. 

What Happens

Through U-Band, participants:

• Join regular music rehearsals to learn and perform traditional and contemporary Ukrainian songs.

• Perform together at local community events to celebrate and share cultural heritage.

• Build friendships, confidence and a sense of belonging through shared musical activity.

• Engage audiences from across Aberdeen, introducing Ukrainian culture to people of all ages and backgrounds. 

Why It Works

The project supports community wellbeing and inclusion by:

• Providing a creative, welcoming space where people come together through music.
• Celebrating cultural diversity and building connections between Ukrainian-linked residents and the wider community.
• Encouraging people to participate in cultural activity that builds confidence and social networks.
• Offering opportunities for informal language practice, cultural exchange and shared enjoyment. 

Community Impact

Since receiving UDECIDE funding, U-Band has:

• Created accessible opportunities for people to engage with Ukrainian cultural expression.
• Helped participants and audiences build cultural understanding and appreciation.
• Enhanced social inclusion by bringing people together through collaborative performance.
• Contributed to a richer community life in Woodside and across Aberdeen. 

The project was funded through the UDECIDE participatory budgeting process, giving local people a direct say in how funds are used to support community-led projects.