"Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone's life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance." Roy T Bennett.

When we got in touch with Sax-man Steve Ray, his partner Barny Hassan sent us that quote.

Self-taught saxophonist Steve Ray has been playing in our streets since 27th March 2020 to help people cope with the strangeness of lockdown.

In doing so he’s raised more than £4,000 for Rugby foodbank.

We first found out about Steve and his music mission to brighten lockdown earlier this spring when he visited a street just around the corner from SRN HQ.

And ever since he’s been super-busy in South Rugby and further afield: playing in Thurlaston on Monday 12th April helping a couple celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary; and in Cawston on Easter Sunday (people could hear him as far as Bilton).

He initially started playing for his mum who was feeling isolated and missed singing at her church. Until then, he’d only ever played saxophone in church.

Steve and Barny then offered to play at some of the care homes in Rugby and members of the public came out to enjoy the music. 

In return, people offered donations and asked for Steve to play music for their street too.

Barny reckons Steve has played in more than 650 places and has requests for 100 more outdoor concerts.

“It almost became a music ministry,” Barny said.

“We have played for people celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, people with terminal medical conditions, celebrations of life, funerals and street cheers.

“The feedback has been remarkable and so kind in words, support and donations.

“It's been a humbling journey. We never ask for payments but for donations to help those are struggling through the lockdown and beyond. It’s a kindness, pay it forward sort of a thing, and communities have given generously financially and with food donations too.”

Originally Steve played in the villages around Leicestershire, where he and Barny raised tens of thousands of pounds for the local foodbanks.

Barny said: “As we play more and more in Warwickshire and Coventry- it is only fair that we give the donations to the local foodbank.”

Steve plays the soprano saxophone and Barny manages the correspondence and streams the videos on the Facebook page. Steve works full time as managing director of an aerospace engineering business.

Steve and Barny were due to get married last year but like many couples have had to reschedule. They live in Pailton Village, Rugby, and attend St Mary’s Church in Lutterworth.

Find the Sax-man on Facebook or make a donation.