Perghenegi: Reimagining Cornish Traditions with Youth Voice

Led by Lowender and funded by Youth Music, Perghenegi brings the unique sounds and stories of Cornwall’s folk traditions to a new generation. The project works with children and young people across Cornwall, encouraging them to explore their cultural heritage and make it their own.

The project, which is supported by the Trailblazer Fund, introduces participants to Cornish songs, dance, and folk traditions, with opportunities to perform at local events like the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival. These experiences are not just about learning music—they’re about boosting confidence and connecting young people to their roots. “Traditional music and culture are forms of living heritage,” says project organiser Jowdy Davey. “The strong sense of place that comes from engaging with music from where you live helps build community cohesion, pride, and wellbeing.”

The evolution of Cornish folk music: tradition meets innovation

Cornish folk music is more than just entertainment—it’s a dynamic cultural expression that’s constantly evolving. By blending traditional sounds with genres like classical and electronic, young people are redefining what Cornish music can be. “We want to see Cornish culture thrive and adapt for generations to come, maintaining Cornwall’s unique place in the world,” Jowdy adds.

Addressing rural isolation through music: connecting Cornish communities

The project also addresses rural isolation by making Cornish traditions more accessible to those in remote areas. “It can be difficult to gather together to play music with sparse populations and poor public transport connections,” Jowdy explains. To combat this, Lowender has started building a digital hub to connect communities and make it easier for young people to access resources and information.

The impact of Cornish folk music on young people

The results have been transformative. Children involved in Perghenegi have not only learned new songs—some in the Cornish language—but have gained a real sense of achievement from performing live. “We saw them grow in confidence on stage and celebrate their success,” Jowdy shares. Teachers have also been enthusiastic, recognising the value of folk music in a wider educational context. “Folk music has huge cross-curricular potential, from history and heritage to storytelling and social commentary,” Jowdy notes.

Reimagining Cornish culture: the future of Perghenegi

The project isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward. With mash-up sessions planned with ensembles like the Cornwall Youth Wind and Jazz Orchestras, Perghenegi will continue to reimagine Cornish culture, making it vibrant and relevant for the next generation. “We’re excited to see where these styles and approaches can blend and celebrate each other,” Jowdy says, envisioning a future where traditional Cornish culture stands proudly alongside modern genres, driven by the creativity and enthusiasm of young people.