Liz Hill
PMZ Trustee
Retired Infant School Head Teacher
MUSICAL NOTES
What do you do for PMZ?
Hello, my name is Liz and I have enjoyed a career in teaching where I have been able to indulge my passion for music and the creative arts. Now, as a Trustee within PMZ, I bring my knowledge of education and safeguarding to support their work across the many communities they engage with. I know how enjoyable and beneficial music is for all ages and how musical experiences can bring so much joy and confidence to every child but especially to those who have experienced trauma. I had the pleasure of working directly with Plymouth Music Zone for many years as a Head Teacher in a local Infant School in Plymouth and saw first hand the power and impact of PMZ’s approach and how much the children responded.
Do you play any instruments?
It all began when I was a child of 4 or 5 and I remember my mother playing the piano or violin whilst my brother and I sang or recited poems. At school I learned to play the recorder and then took up playing the clarinet at the age of 11. I really wanted to play the saxophone because it sounded so rich and sexy but the school had run out of saxophones so I had a clarinet instead! I did love playing the clarinet and joined the school orchestra and had some lessons too. It was only when I became an infant teacher that I realised what fun percussion instruments can be. Since becoming a grandma I have an enthusiastic granddaughter with whom I can have fun with playing on bought and homemade instruments.
What musical instrument would best describe you as a person?
As a person I am optimistic and look for the positives and opportunities in life and am always ‘on the go’. The instrument that best describes me is a Xylophone and if you use the pentatonic notes, anybody can play it, slowly or at speed and it always sounds great.
What has music done for you in your life?
I have an eclectic taste in music and enjoy ‘live’ music from local bands, orchestral stuff, folk and singing and playing with friends. I think that music satisfies the soul and there is something for every occasion. I enjoy recognising a tune or song and it evokes memories for me.
What’s the best bit about working at PMZ?
Working at PMZ gives me the opportunity to share my passion for music and the creative arts and to try to give others the opportunity to take part and enjoy musical experiences too. Plymouth Music Zone is open to everybody and the people who participate in the groups, workshops and behind the scenes all make it such a special ‘zone’ to be in. Just think what a happy place Plymouth could be if everybody could have a little PMZ magic!
What’s the first record/CD you ever bought?
I have never bought a record as there wasn’t spare money in the household when I was growing up so relied on the radio and family musical sessions. I do own some CDs now but I usually pick them up at the charity shop or buy them from a performing band.