Maddy Kilsby-McMurray is a non-binary poet who lives in Southend on Sea. Originally from Western Australia, they now live by the sea with their wife and their dogs. They have always been a writer, scribbling short stories in the margins of their notebooks when they should have been paying attention to maths. As they got older, writing became therapy, a way to process a world that is too busy, too harsh and too fast for their queer, disabled heart. They write trash fire poetry, which is written in haste and often destined for the fire. They can often be found at poetry events across South Essex, including Southend Pride Poetry and Dangerous Poetry. They were the winner of the first Queertopia Poetry Slam. Their poems can be found littered around Southend and Westcliff, on lampposts and telephone poles. But if you’re not local, you can find some of their work on Instagram and Substack at @trashfirepoet

Improve this to reflect the website content for www.mariamoonmusic.com and socials for the Southend Creative website> We are a Music Charity in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, using the power of music to bring communities together — reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and inspiring inclusive, creative social connections. Maria Moon, Founder & Director of Maria Moon Music CIC Maria has been passionate about music since childhood, beginning her musical journey at just three years old. At 16, she became a Community Officer in her hometown, leading music, storytelling, and cultural activities to inspire connection through creativity. ​ With over 25 years of experience teaching, conducting choirs, and directing hundreds of musicals, Maria has shared her expertise across schools, community groups, and international stages. She has also served as a GEMS Choir Festival Judge in Dubai for five years, blending leadership and musical excellence. ​ Her formal training includes qualifications from Trinity College London (ATCL in Voice), ABRSM in Piano and Music Theory, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Nottingham. She has performed worldwide, appearing on television (MBC1), at the BBC Proms, in the Abu Dhabi Arena, and as a member of the Dubai Opera House’s official choir. ​ A versatile musician, Maria plays piano, African drums, percussion, ukulele, recorder, harmonica, and ocarina. She integrates methodologies from the Music Play Early Childhood Curriculum, Paul Harris (Faber Music), Sarah Tenant-Flowers (BBC Choir Master), and Edwin Gordon’s music learning theory, creating a unique approach that blends classical knowledge with community-based accessibility. ​ Today, Maria is dedicated to making music a transformational, inclusive, and joyful experience for all—particularly those who might not otherwise have access to this life-changing art form. Here’s an improved version of your text — refined for Southend Creative’s website and aligned in tone and language with the style found on www.mariamoonmusic.com and Maria Moon’s social channels. The new version is community-forward, authentic, and fitting for a creative network profile while maintaining warmth, professionalism, and clarity. Maria Moon Music CIC “Connecting community hearts and educating families through music.” We are a music charity based in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, using the power of music to bring communities together — reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and inspiring inclusive, creative connection across all ages and backgrounds. Founded and led by Maria Moon, our mission is to make the joy of music accessible to everyone. From choirs and community workshops to inclusive projects for wellbeing, Maria Moon Music CIC creates opportunities for people to sing, play, and reconnect — not just with music, but with each other. About Maria Moon Maria Moon, Founder and Director of Maria Moon Music CIC, is a passionate musician, educator, and community leader with over 25 years of international experience in teaching, conducting, and performing. Maria’s love for music began at just three years old, and by sixteen, she was already serving as a Community Officer, leading music and cultural projects to spark creativity and connection in her hometown. Throughout her career, Maria has directed hundreds of musical productions, led choirs of all ages, and shared her expertise globally — from schools and community groups to international stages. She spent five years as a GEMS Choir Festival Judge in Dubai, combining artistic excellence with community leadership. Her qualifications include an ATCL in Voice from Trinity College London, ABRSM qualifications in Piano and Theory, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Nottingham. Maria has performed around the world — appearing on MBC1 Television, at the BBC Proms, in the Abu Dhabi Arena, and as a member of the Dubai Opera House Choir. A multi-instrumentalist, Maria plays piano, African drums, percussion, ukulele, harmonica, recorder, and ocarina, while blending diverse musical methodologies from Paul Harris, Sarah Tenant-Flowers, and Edwin Gordon’s learning theory into her teaching. Maria’s approach to music is inclusive, playful, and empowering — rooted in the belief that everyone has a song within them waiting to be shared. Our Mission To use music as a tool for connection, confidence, and community — promoting creativity, compassion, and collective wellbeing in Southend and beyond. Connect with Us 🌍 www.mariamoonmusic.com 📸 Instagram @mariamoonmusic 🎵 Facebook @mariamoonmusic