Students and staff from Shaftesbury Nash College have recorded a new charity song written by world-renowned Christian songwriter, Graham Kendrick.
The words and music for Joy oh Joy were inspired by Shaftesbury’s nationwide support for children, young people and adults with disabilities. The song celebrates inclusion and brings together people from across the charity, including its specialist school and colleges.
A special Shaftesbury recording
Shaftesbury’s version of the song features people of all ages who contributed in a way that was meaningful to them, whether it was singing, signing, dancing or playing percussion.
Students and staff recorded their version of Joy oh Joy at Crown Lane Studio in Morden along with supporters of the charity. Groups also came together at locations in Dorset, Essex and Gateshead. Edited together, the track and accompanying video reflects Shaftesbury’s vision for a more inclusive society where people with disabilities are valued and accepted.
Rehearsals took place in college before the recording day, with students learning the Makaton signs to accompany the words. They were excited to perform at the recording studio.
College lecturer and Makaton tutor Alessandro Frige described the positive energy at the studio sessions: “There was a real sense of confidence spreading across the room as students and staff came together to showcase their skills through Makaton, music and performance.
“I was especially moved by the students who do not always choose to sign or sing, but who found their voice in the studio and sang with complete freedom and joy. It was a powerful reminder that opportunities matter: when people are given the right environment, encouragement and support, they can surprise us, and themselves.”
Among those featured on Shaftesbury’s version is presenter and broadcaster Pam Rhodes, who champions people with disabilities in her role as Vice-President of the charity. As the longest-serving host of the BBC’s Songs of Praise, she has been familiar with Kendrick’s work over many years and was instrumental in the creation of a Shaftesbury-inspired song.
Pam said: “The way in which this project has brought together so many people to sing out in joy has been so exciting! Graham’s song touches hearts and souls with words that inspire. The catchy melody means I’ve found myself humming it for hours after I’ve heard it.”
Shaftesbury supports more than 4,000 children, young people and adults with disabilities a year. It continues to build on work first started in 1844 by the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, a pioneering social reformer who dedicated his life to supporting the vulnerable.
A joyous message
Kendrick, best known for Christian worship songs including Shine Jesus Shine, said his intention was “to write a catchy song expressing the spirit of Shaftesbury.” The lyrics of Joy oh Joy are symbolic of the charity’s work to ensure people with disabilities have a voice and feel able to contribute to society.
He said: “Among the stories of Lord Shaftsbury’s extraordinary life, I was moved by how he would often host joyful feasts for those he campaigned for. This inspired me to write Joy oh Joy in his honour, and to celebrate the amazing work of Shaftsbury that continues to the present day.”
Shaftesbury CEO Sally Chivers said: “It’s thrilling that a songwriter of Graham’s calibre has been inspired to write this song, the lyrics of which speak volumes and amplify our message. We certainly intend to turn up the volume to inspire more people to get involved with our work and support us in whatever way they can. It is an example of how we are all together better for disability.”
Watch Shaftesbury’s version of Joy oh Joy