Who we are

Sistrum is an organisation that offers one off free and “pay what you can” classes, workshops and events in Lewisham.

We believe Music and movement is important and should be accessible for all people . Sistrum was set up by Vocalist Sahra Gure.

“My musical upbringing was embedded in community. I learnt violin through the Suzuki Method, attending Suzuki group classes and found my voice at Aldeburgh Young Musicians before studying Jazz Voice at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance.

I know first hand how important it is for children and adolescents, to have a space to connect and learn together. Youth centres and music programs have played a huge part in the musical upbringing of many of the artists I know but with government cuts these places and few and far between.

As a music teacher in various schools I have seen the disparity in music education and as a vocal tutor at Trinity Laban I have seen the effects of this in higher education. We need more accessible music especially for people of the global majority.

After completing my doula training in 2023 I began to think of ways in which I could be useful to my local community, I had shared my frustrations with fellow musicians/creatives and found many people wanted to give back but were unsure on how. There seems to be a disconnect in our community between those who are in need and those who wish to give. Many creatives want to share their knowledge but are unable to commit to a regular teaching job.”

Through this, the idea of Sistrum was born. The concept was to form a platform through which people can offer one-off workshops and classes, this way people have the opportunity to share their skills without the pressure of committing to a full time position.