Isle Rave Brings Inclusive Music Event To Riverside Centre

Families from across the Isle of Wight came together at the Riverside Centre on Saturday for Isle Rave — a vibrant and inclusive event for deaf and visually impaired children and young people.

The day was organised by the Isle of Wight Deaf Children’s Association, the Saturday Club for Deaf Children, and the Isle of Wight Council’s Specialist Teacher Advisory (STA) Team, who worked in partnership to create a fully accessible and engaging experience.

Leading the sessions was Deaf Rave, a group known for promoting deaf artists and making music more accessible. They have previously appeared at major festivals including Boomtown Festival and Glastonbury Festival.

Children and their families were able to get involved in DJing and sign-song workshops, led by performers Matthew Taylor — also known as MC Geezer — and Jefferson Stone.

One of the standout features of the event was the use of Woojer Vests, which allowed participants to experience music through vibrations, offering a different way to connect with sound.

A range of organisations were also on hand with stalls and activities, including Guide Dogs, Sight for Wight, Phonak and National Deaf Children’s Society.

Students from St Catherine’s School supported the event by hosting a popular cake and plant sale to help raise funds.

One parent said it was “lovely to see so many children involved and engaged”, adding that their son particularly enjoyed trying the Woojer Vest and DJing.

Hannah Byers, STA team lead and qualified teacher of deaf children and young people, described Isle Rave as “a wonderful celebration of creativity, inclusivity and community”.

She added:

“It was joyful to see children and young people working together with deaf artists and sharing the event with their families.

“We’re incredibly proud to have worked with our partners to bring this event to the Island.”