Former students of Bankhead Academy in Bucksburn are invited to a series of special reunion events to relive the spirit of the 1970s and celebrate the 20th anniversary of Music 4 U, the charity founded by former Bankhead pupil Debra Baxter (nee Paterson) (class of 1977).
The launch event will take place at the Brig O’Don Pub & Grill in Aberdeen, with additional follow-up events planned across Dyce, Bucksburn, Blackburn/Kinellar, and Newmachar to reflect Bankhead Academy’s original catchment area. These gatherings will bring together former classmates, teachers, and friends to share memories, enjoy live music performed by the talented singers of Music 4 U, and celebrate the unique camaraderie that shaped their school days.
Performances will feature classic hits from the 1970s, a tribute to the era when Bankhead Academy was alive with creativity and community spirit.
Tickets are priced at just £10, with all proceeds going to Music 4 U. Partners are welcome, as are students from across the 1970s.
The King and I: A spark for Music 4 U
Debra’s passion for music and performing was sparked during a memorable production of The King and I at Bankhead Academy in 1978. Under the guidance of drama teacher David Ward and music teacher Jim Addison – who also played the King of Siam in the production – Sunday rehearsals brought students together, not just to rehearse lines and songs but to build a sense of unity.
“It wasn’t just about the singing and dancing,” Debra recalls. “It was the incredible sense of community – everyone pulling together to create something special. That’s what inspired me to start Music 4 U, and that same ethos is at the heart of everything we do.”
Celebrating 20 years of Music 4 U
Established in 2005, Music 4 U has been transforming lives through inclusive performing arts classes for two decades. The charity provides young people of all abilities with tailored learning experiences in a supportive, uplifting, and inspiring environment. Through music and performance, students gain increased employability, empathy, and quality of life.
Reunion details
The reunion events will run from February to October 2025, with afternoon and evening gatherings.
The launch event is as follows:
● Launch Event Date: February 22, 7pm
● Location: Brig O’Don Pub & Grill, 739 King St, Aberdeen, AB24 1XZ
● Additional Dates: Saturday, April 26, 7pm - The Four Mile Inn, Bucksburn, Saturday, June 14, 7pm - Spider’s Web, Dyce, Saturday, August 30 2pm - Beekie’s Neuk, Newmachar, Saturday, October 25, 2.30pm - The Leys Hotel, Blackburn
● Tickets: £10 each, available at www.m4u.org.uk/bankhead
The charity hopes to reunite as many as 500 former students from the 1970s with these Bankhead 500 events – a fitting tribute to the school’s spirit and a nod to Music 4 U’s 500 4 500 campaign, which encourages alumni to support the next generation of talent.
500 4 500: Supporting the next generation
The 500 4 500 initiative is a community-driven sponsorship campaign aimed at raising £250,000 to support young musicians and performers across Aberdeen City and Shire. By uniting 500 local businesses and individuals to each donate £500, Music 4 U aims to empower and support the next generation of local talent.
Alumni who credit their success to their time at Bankhead Academy and cherished memories of school productions are encouraged to contribute to this campaign. Their support will provide life-affirming opportunities for young people who may otherwise struggle to navigate society and find fulfillment in their day-to-day lives.
Join us for a celebration of music, memories, and the enduring power of community.
For more information or to book tickets, visit www.m4u.org.uk/bankhead or www.m4u.org.uk/500 to find out more about the 500 4 500 initiative.