The Leaping Frogs are proof that trying one new thing can change far more than your own life. During COVID-19, Paula, Managing Director of Future DirectionsCIC, took up the harmonica to manage the extraordinary pressure of leading a social care organisation through the pandemic.What began as a way to cope became a passion! She built her own “Harmonica Hut” and even travelled to America to attend harmonica camp.
One small decision in a difficult time started an unexpected journey. Paula joined colleagues Lorraine on bass and vocals and Kevin on guitar and vocals and The Leaping Frogs were born.
Today we perform the best known covers of blues, folk, mainstream rock and pop as well as original tunes at festivals and social care events. As a band we are committed to ensure that music is accessible to everyone and we create opportunities at social care events to offer the people we support across Future Directions to not only come along to watch but to perform alongside of us to. This can be through dance or through signing and singing along with the band.
The Leaping Frogs has helped people supported to build confidence to enjoy music beyond our own social care events. Dancing, singing and joining in with the band has inspired people to attend community music events, try new experiences and feel more connected to their communities.
The band's impact reaches beyond the stage. Paula realised that if trying something new could bring friendship, confidence, wellbeing and purpose to her life, everyone should have that opportunity. This inspired Future Directions “Do Something New” scheme, encouraging every person supported to try something new each quarter– because one experience might uncover a passion or change a life!
