By KLTV Newsdesk –

University performers unite to raise funds and awareness for The Kirkwood hospice

A group of students from the University of Huddersfield are preparing to stage a live music event later this month, combining creativity and community spirit to support The Kirkwood.

Organised entirely by students from a range of music courses, the event, titled “The Kirkwood Music Mashup”, promises a diverse line-up of mixed genres, alongside a bakery sale and clothing stall, all aimed at raising vital funds and awareness for the hospice and the care it provides across Kirklees.

Event details

The free-entry event will take place on Thursday, 23 April, running from 18:00 to 22:00 at Phipps Concert Hall on the University of Huddersfield campus.

Promotional material for the event encourages attendees to “unleash the power of music”, highlighting its mix of styles and inclusive atmosphere.

Visitors will also be able to support fundraising efforts through on-site stalls.

“Something that feels quite unique”

Tom Proctor, a Creative Music Production student, has played a central role in coordinating performers and liaising with artists.

“We don’t have strict job roles as we’ve all been helping each other out, but I’ve mainly been making arrangements with confirmed performers and reaching out to potential talent,” he said.

Looking ahead to the event, Tom added: “I’m excited to deliver something that feels quite unique. With a varied list of genres and different vendors, I think the event will stand out in a music scene that is very crowded.”

Reflecting on his connection to the hospice, he said: “I am very proud to be connected to The Kirkwood. If you’re in a more privileged position, it should be expected that you help others, it feels good to put that into action.”

He also spoke about how his understanding has evolved: “Before this placement, I couldn’t have told you what hospice care really was. But hearing from residents, families and the community, it’s clear that The Kirkwood is a crucial part of Kirklees.”

Raising awareness among young people

Final-year Music Performance student Wing Lam Audrey Chow has led on promotional materials for the event.

“It’s a new experience for me and I’m very excited. The Kirkwood is such a meaningful community charity, and we want to use this event to share that message with young people,” she said.

After visiting the hospice, she described the atmosphere as welcoming and uplifting: “The place was very nice and welcoming. I could see people enjoying their time there, it felt warm and positive. It showed me that The Kirkwood supports people not just medically, but emotionally and socially too.”

She added: “We hope this event will help more people understand what The Kirkwood does and raise important funding for the charity.”

Challenging perceptions of hospice care

Ieuan Humphreys, who studies Sound Engineering and Music Production, said he was inspired to get involved after hearing about the initiative in a lecture.

“I was really moved by the story and knew I wanted to contribute. It’s a great opportunity to bring people together in support of something so important,” he said.

“I’m incredibly proud to be part of it, I’ve been telling friends and family about it for months. Even walking past one of The Kirkwood shops sparks conversations about the project.”

He added: “People often assume hospices are dark or gloomy, I used to think that myself. But after visiting The Kirkwood, I saw something completely different. It was warm, welcoming, and full of life. I’d love more people to see that side of it.”

A personal motivation

For final-year student Nina Booth, who studies Music and Sound for Screen, the project carries personal significance.

“After losing my mum to cancer, I really wanted to be part of something that served a bigger cause than just university coursework,” she said.

“Music can uplift and create connection between people, and I’m excited to be part of a day that celebrates that while supporting The Kirkwood.”

She added: “I feel extremely lucky to be involved. Knowing the care and compassion that goes into the hospice, it means a lot to be trusted to represent them and raise awareness for something so personal to me.”

“An uplifting and enlightening evening”

Creative Music Production student Bethany Critchett has helped organise the project and worked closely with the hospice team.

“I got involved as soon as Mary was introduced in a lecture. I even presented to other students to encourage them to take part,” she said.

“Visiting The Kirkwood really educated us all. Everyone there was so kind and it felt like a home. It’s such an important part of Kirklees, but not everyone fully understands that.”

She added: “I want people to learn about The Kirkwood like I did, and for this to be an uplifting and enlightening evening for everyone who comes along.”

Daniel Urueta also highlighted the importance of raising awareness, saying: “It’s about bringing attention to an organisation that is purely about community and making a difference in people’s lives.”

He added: “Visiting The Kirkwood and speaking to Mary really opened my eyes to what they do. If more people understand what The Kirkwood offers, then we’ve achieved what we set out to do.”

Partnership praised by hospice

The event marks the second year of collaboration between the University of Huddersfield and The Kirkwood.

Mary Tyrrell Place, Community Engagement Lead at the hospice, said: “It’s inspiring to see such a talented group of students come together to organise this event in support of The Kirkwood.”

She added: “Their creativity and generosity will help raise both vital funds and awareness of the care we provide to people and families across Kirklees. It has been wonderful to work with the students, their passion and determination are truly inspiring.”

A night of music with a purpose

With the countdown now under way, organisers hope The Kirkwood Music Mashup will deliver a memorable evening filled with music, connection and purpose — while supporting a vital local cause.

As Tom summed up: “I’m hoping to create an event that really sticks in people’s minds, raises money, and helps support The Kirkwood and the people who rely on it.”

Check out the flyer below for more details.