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Musical therapy charity launched by disabled
Shepherd's Bush woman.

A RESOURCEFUL Shepherd's Bush resident is determined to unite people through music and has launched a charity to help achieve her goal.

Eugenia Bertin has been trying to get E-Unique off the ground for the past four years, and is finally preparing for the official launch party on Saturday, April 21.

Through the charity, groups of people are invited to record a different element of a song, such as percussion or vocals. The parts will then be mixed together to create a single.

The project is based on the idea that music can be therapeutic and is open to all groups that might benefit, including disabled teenagers, adults with learning difficulties and homeless people.

Eugenia, 27, who has cerebral palsy, said: "It all began around four years ago when I noticed there was a gap in the market because there's nothing out there for over-25s and teenagers with disabilities to mix.

"We're hoping to work with homeless and rehab centres and children's homes offering music therapy sessions.

"People forget that creating music is very good therapy – putting your emotions down and recording it.

"It's about bringing people in and creating a unique sound together.

"It's been quite difficult getting to this stage with all the paperwork and making sure all the policies are correct, but we're finally ready to launch."

E-Unique has four venues across London, including the Hammersmith and Fulham Action for Disability (HAFAD) centre in Greswell Street, Fulham, which can host music sessions.

Over time Eugenia hopes to find her own building but at the moment is focusing on raising the profile of the foundation.

One man who has thrown his support behind E-Unique is award-winning music producer Simon Britton, who has worked with the likes of Leona Lewis, Sting and Beverley Knight.

He said: "I was so inspired by Eugenia and it's such a unique thing that she's doing, I couldn't say no to her.

"I'm involved in other charities, but this one just seemed a little bit different. It's starting small, but it will be big."

Thanks to Mr Britton's industry connections, there will be several signed goodies available for raffle at next Saturday's launch party at The Harrow Club, in Freston Road, Shepherd's Bush.

 

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