An orchestral performance of newly composed music which also includes film, animation and poetry inspired by kindness. The orchestral performance will be followed by a panel of experts from Sussex University and the London School of Economics examining how altruistic behaviour can have positive impacts on well being.

Kindness plays a vital role in recovery and it is a quality that members of the New Note Orchestra are keen to practice. Brought together by different journeys to recovery from addiction, the musicians in the orchestra are united in both their love of music and their desire to get well and lead happy fulfilling lives.

Few things are more cruel than addiction and alcoholism. Recovery takes patience, tolerance and kindness.

Kind Rebellion is a collaboration with the University of Sussex, which has its own kindness research department where teams of researchers explore and highlight how acts of kindness impact people and communities.

Molly Mathieson, founder of the orchestra, says: “The point of this project is based on the idea that when people come into recovery through various groups, they are fundamentally about helping others, supporting others through recovery through shared stories, experiences and support. Being supportive, being kind to others is the very heart of recovery and ongoing support is both needed and provided for people living with addictions.”

The performance will examine how being kind helps boost well being as well as look at how it can underpin good mental health. The panel discussion will explore acts of kindness in more detail by examining the brain science and psychology around being kind.