Listen to ‘Lister’s Legacy’
We are incredibly proud to launch "Lister's Legacy," an original song created, performed, and recorded by students from Ryburn Valley High School and The Brooksbank School. The song was launched today, on what would have been Anne Lister’s 234th birthday, in memory of this remarkable local woman and to raise money for the Malala Fund.
Listen to "Lister's Legacy"
You can stream the song below:
The Story Behind the Song
Over 40 students collaborated on the project, drawn from diverse extra-curricular groups including our school choir, LGBTQ+ committees, girl's self-empowerment group, school bands, and poetry clubs. Students embraced the opportunity to learn about and celebrate Anne Lister, the local historical icon and feminist trailblazer.
The journey began with introductory sessions where students learned about Anne Lister and discussed the project's aims. Students then divided into instrumental, vocal, and writing groups based on their interests and talents, with the project culminating in recording their powerful anthem ‘Lister’s Legacy’.
“This project is about more than just making music. It's about empowering young people to collaborate, tell their stories, understand their history, and create meaningful change. Anne Lister’s legacy has inspired them to express their own voices with confidence, and I am blown away by what they have achieved," said Terry Logan, who facilitated the project.
A song to remember
The single and accompanying music video will be officially released on 1 May. The students want to raise money for Malala Fund, a charity which helps girls globally to access education, a cause that resonates with Anne Lister's own dedication to learning and self-improvement.
Support the Project and Pre-Order the single
We invite our school community and the wider public to support this brilliant project. By making a donation to our JustGiving page, you will:
Receive a link to a downloadable version of "Lister's Legacy"
Support the Malala Fund, which works to provide girls worldwide with access to education – a cause that resonates with Anne Lister's own dedication to learning and self-improvement
Public Launch event
The song made its public debut today at the annual Anne Lister flower-laying celebration at The Piece Hall. Students attended as honoured guests at the flower-laying ceremony, where "Lister's Legacy" was played and livestreamed to Anne Lister enthusiasts worldwide and a very warm reception from attendees.
We extend our sincere thanks to Rachel Lappin, Calderdale Culturedale, Bridge Studios Hebden Bridge, artwork illustrator Adam Pryce, and everyone who has supported our students throughout this project.
