Students Unite to Honour Anne Lister
Students from Ryburn Valley High School and The Brooksbank School have collaborated on an inspiring and original musical project that celebrates the life and legacy of Anne Lister—local icon, diarist and pioneering feminist.
More than 40 students aged 11 to 17 contributed to the creation of Lister’s Legacy, a moving and original track that explores themes of courage, self-empowerment and authenticity. This student-led initiative brought together young people from a wide range of extra-curricular groups, including the school choir, bands, LGBTQ+ groups, girls’ self-empowerment club and poetry club.
Working alongside Anne Lister Programme Co-ordinator Rachel Lappin and Learning Mentor Terry Logan, and as part of the Calderdale Culturedale 2024–25 programme, the students took part in a series of creative workshops. These sessions developed their skills in songwriting, music composition and poetry, allowing them to produce a track that connects local heritage with current social themes.
The song premiered at the Anne Lister Flower Laying Ceremony at The Piece Hall on Thursday 3 April 2025, marking what would have been Lister’s 234th birthday. It will be officially released across streaming platforms on 1 May 2025, with all proceeds donated to the Malala Fund, supporting girls’ education across the globe.
Supporters can pre-order the single via the project’s JustGiving page:
https://lnkd.in/d_qrQ3v3
To learn more about the Malala Fund and its mission to ensure every girl has access to 12 years of free, quality education, visit:
https://malala.org