Tributes to Music Man Project student Paul Dawson

Tribute to Paul Dawson by The Music Man Project

The Music Man Project has honored Paul Dawson, 61, who passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 3.

Paul was a long-term student at The Music Man Project, joining the group over two decades ago.

He performed at the London Palladium and the Royal Albert Hall concerts and became a familiar face at events across south Essex.

Personal Life and Family

Paul was the youngest of four siblings. He moved to Eastwood in 1985 after growing up in Walthamstow.

Later, he moved to Shoebury and lived there until his dementia progressed.

Paul was the brother of Ann, the longest-serving carer at The Music Man Project, and Dave, a fellow student.

Tribute from David Stanley BEM

David Stanley BEM, the founder of The Music Man Project, announced Paul’s passing and paid tribute to him.

He said, “We’re deeply saddened that our long-term student, Paul Dawson, passed away peacefully in his sleep.”

David added, “For decades, Paul was a much-loved member of our Saturday music school in Southend and then a regular student at The Music Man Project Essex.”

He noted that Paul performed at the London Palladium and Royal Albert Hall concerts and was a familiar face in concerts and events across south Essex.

“We send our thoughts and prayers to the whole family,” David stated.

Favorite Song and Legacy

Paul’s favorite song to perform was “Note by Note,” which the group performed at the London Palladium.

David fondly remembered how Paul would not leave rehearsals until he had the chance to perform the song.

“In recent years, as he battled dementia, Paul found solace in performing his favorite Music Man song, ‘Note by Note’,” David added.

He often wouldn’t leave unless he had his moment at the front strumming his ukulele next to volunteer Jon.

“Rest in peace, Paul, and keep singing your song,” David concluded.

About The Music Man Project

The Music Man Project is an award-winning inclusive music education program for people with learning disabilities.

It was founded in Southend in 2000.