After a two-year Covid-hibernation we re-emerged with a new, small ensemble as well as our usual 14-piece orchestra. We performed to almost 8000 children in 17 schools throughout the Southeast and supported hundreds of teachers with our free resources.
One of the teachers said, “Watching Tristan putting his feet on the double bass and then reaching out for the musician was magical.”
Tristan has multiple sensory needs, so feeling the vibrations of the instruments greatly enhances his experience of the music. This is what he’s doing in this picture. What you don’t see here is our orchestra in the centre of the room with space for everyone to access our musicians. For wheelchairs and beds to move around us. You can’t do this if we’re in a concert hall on a stage!
We work with all children, including those with complex special need to provide a high quality, live orchestral experience.
Why? Because we know the benefits are proven, and we are passionate about making access completely inclusive. It’s so much more than just a 1-hour concert! We know that even just listening to orchestral music is proven to benefit mental health and wellbeing and since covid there are record high numbers of young people struggling, yet falling beneath the threshold for help with their mental health. If we can show children (and teachers!) that orchestral music is fun and exciting then maybe they will choose to listen again and begin to love it just like we do.
Our work is more vital now than ever before, but budgets are tight and we are facing our toughest time yet. We know that money doesn’t grow on trees, and everyone is tightening their belts.
We rely entirely on funding and need to raise £20,000 by 31st July 2025. We know that this target is ambitious, but we are ambitious – and with your help we know we can do it.
We understand that not everyone can afford to donate. Any amount that you can give will make a huge difference and we promise that every penny will go towards giving every child access to quality, live orchestral music which is their right, regardless of background.
Time is against us. Please donate today if you can.
If you think you can help in other ways, we are always keen to hear your ideas.
Thank you so much,
