Inspiring young musicians in National Orchestra for All prepare to meet for the first time this season

From barrier-smashing activities to diverse repertoire, here’s everything you need to know about National Orchestra for All’s upcoming residential…

As the sound of spring returns, so does the start of an exciting new season of music and togetherness for National Orchestra for All (NOFA)!

NOFA is our inclusive, non-auditioned, national youth orchestra. It welcomes around 100 young people aged 11-19 from all backgrounds, with a wide range of musical abilities, playing any instrument of their choice – including those not typically found in a traditional orchestra, such as guitars, saxophones and melodicas.

Next week, the Orchestras for All (OFA) team will be welcoming both new and returning NOFA members, who are based in all four corners of the UK, to the city of Birmingham for their first in-person residential of the year – and we can’t wait to show them what’s in store.

NOFA’s spring residential marks the start of a dynamic two-year season for the ensemble, where inspiring young musicians will be coming together for the first time to rehearse in sectionals (smaller instrumental groups) as well as with the full orchestra, supported throughout by our wonderful team of orchestral and wellbeing tutors. 

Last season, NOFA cellist, Jess, said: “NOFA is a good space to join if you are nervous about going to an orchestra because it is just one big happy family! You don’t have to feel like you have to be the best – you can just play along and laugh if you make mistakes”.

Read more: Barefoot London Marathon: National Orchestra for All alum runs for change >

NOFA alum and Ambassador, Kit, added: “Joining the orchestra has definitely helped my confidence with playing in front of other people.

“NOFA is all about collaboration, community and creativity. Regardless of how nervous you might feel, you really enjoy it – and not many young people have the chance to do this, so I’m really grateful.”

Read more: 7 powerful benefits of inclusive music education >

Being part of NOFA offers young people life-changing musical experiences they may not otherwise have had the opportunity to enjoy due to the daily barriers they face, while also developing valuable life and communication skills. NOFA creates a thriving, creative community and of course, it’s great fun too!

What music will NOFA be playing this season?

As well as creating their own pieces of music with professional composers, NOFA members get to play all types of music – from pop songs, classical works and film favourites, to jazz, video game soundtracks and dance anthems.

The ensemble’s diverse repertoire is carefully selected to reflect the diversity of the orchestra members themselves. Chosen in collaboration with our Artistic Director and Youth Board, this season’s repertoire will include Ghanaian call and response song, ‘A Keelie Makolay’, ‘Ritmos Ciganos’, written by Portuguese composer, Carlos Garcia, and an original composition by NOFA alum and current Trinity Laban student, Christian Dews.  

Read more: 21 female composers you really need on your radar >

Christian told us: “It’s good at NOFA because there are a lot of video game music composers who are inspired by orchestral music, but you never usually hear their music being played.”

What will NOFA members be getting up to this spring?

National Orchestra for all musicians take centre stage in Birmingham for their summer 2024 concert.

During each day of the spring residential, NOFA members will be participating in lively rehearsals and workshops as well as games and social activities in the evenings.

We have a jam-packed schedule of workshops planned this time around, including workshops focused on improvisation, visual art, conducting, shadow puppetry and chamber music.

Speaking about her past experience with the ensemble, NOFA alum and former Ambassador, Grace, said: “I love NOFA because it is so inclusive, and we play all sorts of different genres of music. I get to learn other skills too, like public speaking, organising the quiz and social media.”

Read more: 11 barrier-smashing highlights from Orchestras for All in 2024 >

Our commitment to wellbeing at NOFA

We love our fantastic wellbeing and orchestral tutors!

To ensure all young people participating in NOFA are able to access and enjoy our inclusive programme, we have a friendly wellbeing and safeguarding team on hand at each residential to offer bespoke support that caters to their individual support needs.

Read more: The importance of young people’s mental wellbeing >

Each NOFA member is also part of a group, led by two wellbeing tutors who check in with them throughout the day and support them to and from activities. Throughout the week, they will be making sure everyone feels comfortable, confident and safe. Plus, there is always a designated chill out space available at the venue if a young person ever feels overwhelmed in any way or is in need of some quiet time.

After joining NOFA last season, pianist Noah said: “NOFA is a second home for me – a second family, a safe space. I can’t recall any moment here that I haven’t enjoyed. I feel respected and heard and it’s here that I’ve made some of my closest friends. The music is catchy and the staff are absolutely amazing!”

We couldn’t agree more and as we embark on this next NOFA season, we look forward to watching our new cohort of young musicians build friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Until then, let’s get our instruments at the ready and we’ll see you all very soon!

Keen to support National Orchestra for All? Please donate what you can to our charity:

Barefoot London Marathon: National Orchestra for All alum runs for change

Making a difference in music education, one step at a time… 

This spring, National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alum, Cameron Jacobs, will be taking on one of the most gruelling physical challenges imaginable – running the London Marathon. 

On Sunday 27 April, the 18-year-old musician will be joining his mum, Polly (pictured below), OFA supporter, Gabriel, and tens of thousands of other participants to make the annual 26.2-mile journey across the city. But he won’t just be running for himself. He’s running barefoot, with every step dedicated to a cause that’s close to his heart: increasing access to group music-making for young people across the UK. 

Cameron said: “I have ADHD, Autism and Tourette’s and when I was 11 years old, I was going through a bit of a tricky time. Orchestras for All came along, took me on as a trumpet player, and gave me a place to belong and be completely me.

“Orchestras for All has been really life-transforming for me and this is why I wanted to raise money for them by doing this barefoot challenge. I hope this enables more young people who are facing significant challenges in their life to be part of this incredible organisation.”

Cameron’s journey is more than just an impressive athletic feat; it’s a story of resilience, passion and the transformative power of group music-making. Before joining NOFA as a trumpet player several years ago, he had experienced significant barriers to entry for playing in a national youth orchestra due to the daily life challenges he faces. 

Read more: 7 powerful benefits of inclusive music education >

Pictured: NOFA alum, Cameron, with his mum, Polly.

Through NOFA, Cameron was able to boost his confidence and mental wellbeing, be part of a vibrant community, make lifelong friends from diverse backgrounds and do what he loved best – making music with others. 

Fast forward to today and Cameron is proud to be an OFA Ambassador. This is a paid role offered specially to NOFA alums at our charity to help them develop new skills and use their own lived experience to support and inspire current members.

Meet OFA’s Ambassadors >

He has also received an unconditional offer to study music at university, demonstrating the positive impact that OFA’s inclusive music-making activities have had on the course of his life. 

Now, Cameron wants to give back to others by using his marathon run to raise vital funds for OFA, enabling us to empower even more young musicians across the country who might not otherwise have the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of group music-making. 

Running the London Marathon is tough, but running it barefoot adds an entirely new level of challenge. Cameron’s decision to do so symbolises the growing need to break down barriers, face adversity head-on and stand strong for inclusivity in music education. This is a powerful reminder that endurance can help us to overcome any obstacle. 

Bold brass: Cameron (pictured middle, orange t-shirt), performs at CBSO Centre in Birmingham with NOFA.

How can you support Cameron’s barefoot marathon? 

This campaign is more than just one person’s journey – it’s a move committed to raising awareness about the need for change in music and we would love for you to be part of it.  

Here’s how you can help: 

• Please donate what you can: Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps OFA provide musical instruments, life-changing programmes and holistic support for young people who need it the most. 

• Share Cameron’s story: Spread the word on social media using our campaign hashtag, #BarefootForAll. 

• Follow the journey: Stay updated on Cameron’s progress, training and London marathon day through OFA’s social media channels and sign up to OFA’s email newsletter for more.

Cameron’s barefoot marathon is a bold statement about resilience, inclusivity and the power of music to transform young lives. Let’s celebrate his extraordinary journey and help him reach his fundraising goal. Together, we can make music accessible to all, one step at a time. 

Please support Cameron’s barefoot marathon and donate what you can >

“Orchestral music-making isn’t just for the few – it’s for everyone,” says Modulo Programme Manager, Charlie

With our spring Modulo Meets just on the horizon, we caught up with Charlie to learn more… 

Hello, I’m Charlie! This is my first season as Modulo Programme Manager at Orchestras for All, so I thought I’d introduce myself and share a bit about the work I’m doing with the charity through its fantastic Modulo Programme. 

Music plays a big role in my life. Whether it’s jamming with my friends at weekends or sharing songs and stories at my local folk club, it’s more than just a creative outlet – it’s a way to bring people together and feel a sense of shared passion and belonging.  

I’ve seen firsthand how powerful music can be, whether it’s the triumph of discovering a new instrument (I’m currently learning the tin whistle – not quite there just yet though!), the excitement of live performance, or the sense of belonging and identity it can give someone.

That’s why I’m so passionate about making music accessible to all young people across the UK through my work with the Modulo Programme. 

Read more: 7 powerful benefits of inclusive music education >

Modulo is designed to break down barriers and give young people, no matter their background or ability, the chance to discover the joy of making music in an ensemble. It doesn’t matter if they’re picking up an instrument for the first time or already have some experience; everyone is welcome to join the programme and attend our energising Modulo Meets. 

Modulo Meets are our in-person events that take place at leading arts venues across the country, bringing together young people and their music leaders to learn and play within a safe and supportive space. Here they can grow, collaborate and feel empowered to become a valued part of something much bigger than themselves, all the while guided by an expert team of conductors and Orchestral Tutors. 

What makes Modulo so special to me is its focus on inclusion. By supporting underfunded schools and working with young musicians from underrepresented communities, the programme ensures that orchestral music-making isn’t just for the few – it’s for everyone.  

Read our latest impact report >

We create inclusive arrangements that cater to all kinds of instruments – including those not typically found in a traditional orchestra setting, such as guitars, drums, melodicas and saxophones. We encourage learning by ear as well as using sheet music. Young participants even have the opportunity to reverse roles with the adults and try their hand at conducting! We also care about their emotional wellbeing and have a safeguarding team joining us to keep everyone happy throughout the day. 

From exciting workshops to unforgettable performances, Modulo creates opportunities that many students might never have had otherwise. I hope these can become treasured memories as well as educational experiences, helping our young musicians to develop both musically and personally. 

For me, it’s a privilege to be part of their journey. Watching a young person light up as they hear themselves play their part together with a huge ensemble for the first time – these are the moments that drive me and make me feel proud of doing such meaningful work. 

Read more: Modulo Programme 2024 highlights >

This spring, we’re hosting Modulo in partnership with Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, The Glasshouse Centre in Gateshead, London’s Cecil Sharp House and CBSO Centre in Birmingham. We can’t wait to meet our new cohort very soon and make some epic music together. 

Thank you for reading and if you’d like to learn more about Modulo, do take a look at our brochure here or send me an email and I’d be happy to chat with you. 

In the meantime, stay tuned on our social media channels for future Modulo updates! 

Keen to support Modulo? Please donate what you can to our charity today: 

Your voice matters: share your thoughts in Orchestras for All’s new brand survey!

Help us shape the future of our charity.

In 2021, Orchestras for All (OFA) underwent an exciting transformation with a vibrant rebrand designed to reflect our charity’s life-changing work and the inspiring young people we support.

We worked closely in collaboration with our incredible Youth Board and professional design agency, Split, to update everything from OFA’s logo and colour palettes to printed merchandise – and were so pleased with the results!

While our rebrand was a significant step forward for us, we know that meaningful change often comes from listening to the people who make up our community. Whether you’ve been part of our journey for many years or are new to OFA, your perspective matters to us.

That’s why now, four years on, we want to hear from you! Your feedback is truly invaluable and we’re inviting you to share your thoughts in our new brand survey.

Read more: Celebrating music and togetherness: Read our latest Impact Report! >

Pictured: A close up of an Orchestras for All branded t-shirt, designed in collaboration with the Youth Board.

We’re committed to ensuring that OFA’s identity continues to feel as dynamic and inclusive as the work we do in our programmes. By sharing your thoughts, you will help us:

• Tell our story better: Does our brand reflect the powerful impact of our work?

• Meet your needs: How can we better support and engage with you?

• Stay authentic: Does our brand resonate with young people and music leaders today?

Please help us shape the next chapter of OFA and take a moment to complete our short survey below – it should only take a few minutes.

Thank you for being such an important part of our journey. Your continued support makes everything we do possible and we look forward to hearing your thoughts!

Celebrating music and togetherness: Read our latest Impact Report!

From Sounds of Change to youth leadership, here’s our year in review…

Kickstarting the New Year on a positive note, we’re delighted to share our latest Impact Report for Orchestras for All (OFA). 

At OFA, we believe in the transformative power of group music-making to change young peoples’ lives – and in our uplifting new report, we showcase our charity’s barrier-smashing work from July 2023 to June 2024.

Co-Chairs to OFA’s Board of Trustees, Susanna Eastburn MBE, Beth White and Joelle Sogunro, wrote: ‘Over the past year, Orchestras for All has made great strides in making music accessible to everyone. We’ve stayed true to our mission of inclusive music-making, with a strong focus on empowering young people to take a key role in shaping the future of music.  

“Through our programmes, we’ve created space for young people from all backgrounds to get involved, using music as a way to foster leadership and personal growth.”

Read more: 11 barrier-smashing highlights from Orchestras for All in 2024 >

Pictured (left to right): A NOFA cellist, three Modulo participants and a NOFA violinist and flautist.

As well as highlights from our three life-changing programmes, National Orchestra for All (NOFA), Modulo and Music Leadership Training (MLT), you can read our report to discover:

• Exciting charity updates – from artistic development to sustainability

• Inspiring stories and testimonies from young musicians, parents and guardians, alums and music teachers across the UK

• How we’ve strengthened OFA’s sector-leading inclusive practice

• Why youth leadership matters in music

• Our ongoing commitment to wellbeing and safeguarding

• Digital campaign highlights and ways we’ve built our diverse community

NOFA violinist and alum, Miecha (featured in the video below), summed up her experience perfectly: “It’s nice to go somewhere else independently, find yourself, meet other people from different parts of the UK and just play music together.”

While we’re taking a moment to reflect on the year’s achievements, we’re also filled with excitement for what’s to come in 2025.

Alongside introducing you to our next set of Ambassadors, Trustees and Youth Board members, we’ll be going on tour once again for Modulo and NOFA – but with a brilliant new cohort of young people and schools!

We can’t wait to welcome new and existing members to our energising live events this spring, taking place from February onwards at leading arts venues in Manchester, Gateshead, London and Birmingham.

Until then, sit back and explore our Impact Report to get a taste of all the music-making action!

Thank you to all those who were part of our journey in 2023-24 – your ongoing support makes everything we do possible.

11 barrier-smashing highlights from Orchestras for All in 2024

What a memorable year it has been…

As we approach the end of 2024, we have been reflecting on yet another remarkable year here at Orchestras for All (OFA).

From energising live events and national tours across the country, to empowering young people through youth leadership programmes, here are some of our highlights.

1. Working with our trailblazing alums

Pictured: OFA’s Co-Chairs to the Board of Trustees, Joelle Sogunro (left) and Susanna Eastburn MBE (right).

Speaking about her work as an Orchestral Tutor with us, National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alum, Phoebe, told us: “Orchestras for All gives young people lifelong skills, potentially opening up career paths they never thought they’d have.”

We couldn’t agree more – and that’s why this year, we were delighted to appoint NOFA alum, Joelle Sogunro, as Co-Chair to the Board of Trustees, alongside Susanna Eastburn MBE, building on the success of our previous Co-Chair and NOFA alum, Beth White, last year.

Plus, Youth Leadership Coordinator, Laura Fullwood, joined us in 2024 to continue the development of our youth leadership programmes. Laura has taken over from Elen Derrett, meaning we now have two brilliant NOFA alums in our core team!  

2. Empowering young leaders

OFA Ambassador, Grace, expertly hosting the NOFA summer concert at CBSO Centre, Birmingham.

At OFA, providing young people with youth leadership opportunities is an ongoing priority, so over the course of the year we worked closely with a group of 10 fantastic Ambassadors.

Our Ambassadors joined us at all live events and supported every aspect of our work, from stage management and communications, to presenting concerts and running social activities for young people – and everything in between!

OFA Ambassador and NOFA alum, Atse, said: “Being an Ambassador has been a very rewarding and valuable experience for me.”

 We also collaborated with our 15 Youth Board members, who played an integral part in driving positive change within the charity - including helping us make the decision to move to Sheffield – and amplifying the voices of the young people in our programmes more than ever before.

Read more: ‘Investing in youth leadership is crucial for shaping the future of the arts,’ says National Orchestra for All alum, Elen >

3. Going on tour with the Modulo Programme

In 2024, we hosted eight Modulo Meets across the UK, travelling from London to Birmingham, Manchester to York. Held at leading arts venues, such as Royal Academy of Music and Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, these live events brought together 500 students from 35 maintained schools and local community groups. We were also delighted to welcome our first SEND school, Billing Brook.

The Meets enabled young musicians to connect with likeminded individuals, explore their creativity and share their love of music within a safe, supportive and energising environment. In the summer, they even got to perform together to a live audience, spreading the joy of Modulo to others through stunning classical works from composer Florence Price and Stevie Wonder funk hits!

 Read more: Inclusive music-making across the UK: Modulo Programme 2024 highlights >

4. Uplifting National Orchestra for All residentials

We had another successful year with our flagship programme, National Orchestra for All (NOFA). We held two four-day residentials at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, welcoming 100 young people from across the country to make music together. These joyous events were jam-packed with opportunities for new and existing NOFA members to develop their skills, build their confidence and make lifelong friends.

NOFA violinist, Freya, said: “NOFA is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you will never want to leave! It gives you a new outlook on other people and instruments, and it’s something you can’t get anywhere else.”

5. Unforgettable live performances

In August, NOFA held a completely youth-led performance at CBSO Centre in Birmingham, showcasing the extraordinary dedication and inspiring stories of our young people. From mesmerising solo performances to energising video game soundtracks and a NOFA original composition, it was a concert we will never forget.

A group of NOFA musicians also took to the stage at Same Difference festival in Wolverhampton, blowing away festival goers with their infectious energy and demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive ensembles.

6. Relocating to Sheffield

The OFA team enjoy a tour of the charity’s future home, Canada House, in Sheffield city centre.

Following a rigorous selection process that welcomed suggestions from our team as well as our wider community, 2024 was the year we relocated our office headquarters to Canada House in the bustling city of Sheffield.

Read more: Orchestras for All announces its headquarters relocation to Sheffield >

Through our close partnerships with Sheffield Music Hub, Sheffield Music Academy and Harmony Works, we are excited to be supporting the city’s vision to provide inclusive group music-making opportunities for all young people and local schools.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Cecil Sharp House for being OFA’s home for over a decade. We’ll be taking away special memories from our live activity here and look forward to supporting your work going forward.

7. Shaping the future of our charity

Making a difference: The Orchestras for All team meet with Trustees and the Youth Board for an Away Day.

Last month, we brought together OFA’s core team, trustees and Youth Board members for a thought-provoking away day at Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

Packed with creative planning and exciting discussions about our future, we shared ideas aplenty and ensured that every voice in our community was represented and heard throughout.

During our visit, we even got to visit our beautiful new home, Canada House, and hear the inside scoop about its forthcoming development plans from architect, Emily Pieters (see image above) – watch this space!

8. Making a difference through fundraising

NOFA members enjoy a break from rehearsals during their summer 2024 residential at CBSO Centre.

In 2024, we ran not one, but two successful Big Give campaigns, raising over £34,000! Young people were at the forefront of both campaigns, sharing their personal stories and showcasing the impact of our charity’s work.

These vital funds will help our charity continue breaking down significant barriers to music education for young people in the UK who need us the most and expand our reach in 2025. Thank you so much to everyone who donated and supported our campaigns – we really couldn’t have done it without you.

Read more: We’ve raised over £21,000 for National Orchestra for All through our Big Give Christmas Challenge >

9. An exciting new partnership with Hakluyt

This season, we announced a groundbreaking new partnership with global strategic advisory firm, Hakluyt. Its generous financial support and shared expertise from its team will further enable us to fulfil our charity’s powerful mission.

Orchestras for All partners with global advisory firm Hakluyt in a bid to boost inclusive music education >

Together, we can increase access to musical opportunities for young musicians – regardless of their background or personal circumstances, through our three inclusive programmes.

10. Multiple award wins

In 2024, we were thrilled to win Youth Initiative of the Year at the Music Mark Awards! We received this accolade in recognition of OFA’s sector-leading youth leadership programmes and would like to thank Music Mark for believing in our charity’s work.

We were also delighted to take home a Bronze award at the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2024, celebrating our video of National Orchestra for All enjoying a dynamic live workshop with composer and multi-instrumentalist, Joe Broughton, in which they co-created a powerful new piece, ‘Strength in Numbers’.

11. Advocacy in action

NOFA alum and Trustee, Beth (right), takes to the stage at a national conference.

With NOFA alums speaking at national conferences, including the Association of British Orchestras annual conference in Bristol and the Music and Drama Education Expo in London, our advocacy efforts were stronger than ever.

Plus, our Fundraising and Communications Coordinator (and NOFA alum), Elen, was invited to spend a week with Superar – a music education organisation based in Vienna, giving her the opportunity to share OFA’s work at an international level as well as learn from others who share our values.

Read more: Music-making across borders: A memorable week in Vienna with Superar >

As we wrap up another memorable year, we want to thank our wonderful community of funders, individual donors, partners, supporters, colleagues and of course, the inspiring young musicians who define our programmes.

Your belief in the power of group music-making has made this a phenomenal time for our charity and we can’t wait to build upon all that we have achieved.

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we hope you enjoy the festive period, have a restful break and we look forward to seeing you again in 2025 for more barrier-smashing activity!

Keen to support our work next year? Please consider donating what you can:

We’ve raised over £21,000 for National Orchestra for All through our Big Give Christmas Challenge!

Making a positive impact…

Last week, we launched our most ambitious fundraising campaign yet with our Big Give Christmas Challenge – and we’re delighted to share that together with match funding and gift aid, we’ve raised a total of £21,978.75!

Every pound raised will help us continue the life-changing work of our inclusive National Orchestra for All (NOFA) programme, going directly towards providing transformative musical opportunities for young people in the UK who face barriers to participation.

Your ongoing support empowers our mission to ensure that all young people, regardless of their background or personal circumstances, can experience the many benefits of playing music with others – from developing their skills in communication and youth leadership, to making lifelong friends.

Sharing her thoughts on the ensemble, 14-year-old cellist, Jess, said: “NOFA is the best place on Earth and makes you feel 100 per cent less alone.”

Read more: Orchestras for All wins Youth Initiative of the Year at the Music Mark Awards 2024 >

National Orchestra for All violinist, Freya, and her orchestra friends perform at CBSO Centre in Birmingham.

Whether you donated to our campaign or shared the news with your network, it’s your ongoing belief in our vital work that keeps us going.

Every note played, every rehearsal shared and every stage performed on is made possible because of you. Together, we’re building a brighter future where high-quality music education isn’t just for the privileged few. Thank you so much for your time and generosity.

We would also like to take a moment to thank our match funders, Big Give, for doubling the impact of your donations, and our dedicated partner, Hakluyt, for teaming up with us this year to support our activity.

Read more: Orchestras for All partners with global advisory firm Hakluyt >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All musicians receive a round of applause after their summer 2024 concert.

Though we’re celebrating this milestone today, our work with NOFA is far from done.

In 2025, we look forward to introducing you to our next cohort of National Orchestra for All, sharing their powerful stories and developing our inclusive practice even further as we bring you another season of exciting repertoire. Watch this space…

Until then, here’s to the merriest of festive seasons, filled with beautiful music – and thank you again for helping us to make a lasting impact!

Missed the Big Give campaign but still keen to support our work?
Please donate what you can to Orchestras for All below:

Join Orchestras for All in the Big Give Christmas Challenge! 🎄

Help us transform young musicians’ lives, one donation at a time…

This winter, we’re delighted to announce that Orchestras for All (OFA) is participating in the Big Give Christmas Challenge!

This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a difference as from 3-10 December 2024, any donations you make to our charity will be DOUBLED thanks to match funding.

This means that every pound you give will go twice as far in helping us to provide life-changing musical experiences for young people across the UK.

National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alum, Cameron, said: “OFA is the most inclusive organisation you can get and I feel so included being a part of it.”

NOFA percussionist and Youth Board member, Hayden, added: “I love Orchestras for All because it allows young people to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

Read more: Over the moon: Orchestras for All wins Youth Initiative of the Year at the Music Mark Awards 2024! >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All members take to the stage at CBSO Centre in Birmingham.

Why we’re supporting young musicians

In the UK, not all young people have equal access to music-making. Financial, logistical, geographical, personal and cultural barriers often prevent many from participating in group ensemble opportunities – and we’re determined to change this.

With increasing cuts to music education, falling teacher numbers and reducing family funds for extracurricular activities, fewer disadvantaged young people can access music education. Meanwhile, with more young people experiencing isolation, disrupted education, and mental and physical health challenges each year, the need for inclusive music opportunities has never been greater.

Our solution

At OFA, we run inclusive, accessible youth orchestras that welcome young people of all backgrounds, no matter their circumstances. This includes National Orchestra for All (NOFA), the most accessible and inclusive youth orchestra in the UK, bringing together 100 inspiring young people who face barriers to group music-making.

NOFA residentials welcome and empower young people most in need: those from isolated, marginalised or deprived communities and those living with physical or mental health conditions, learning difficulties or within the care system – challenges that mean traditional ensemble music-making opportunities are not accessible to them.

A group of National Orchestra for All saxophonists perform to a live audience at their summer concert.

Our free of charge, non-auditioned programme removes all obstacles to participation, covering the cost of transport, accommodation and meals. We also offer musical arrangements that cater to all instruments and abilities, and bespoke wellbeing support to prioritise the emotional needs of each NOFA member, fostering a safe environment in which they can thrive.

NOFA member, Erin, said: “NOFA has allowed me to grow and mature as a person, and I don’t think I would be who I am today without it.”

Our impact

The transformative power of orchestral music-making is at the heart of everything we do. Through our inclusive programmes, young people will:

• Build their musical skills within a supportive, high-quality, national ensemble.

• Develop personal and social skills, including increased confidence, self-esteem, teamwork, discipline and responsibility.

• Create lasting friendships and integrate with others from different backgrounds across the UK, reducing feelings of isolation and improving mental health.

• Fulfil their aspirations, leading to brighter futures in further education and careers.

Over the past two year-season, we’ve made some incredible memories with our brilliant young NOFA members that will no doubt last us a lifetime – and we’re just getting started.

How you can help

This year, we’re aiming to raise £25,000 through the Big Give Christmas Challenge, which will fund transport, meals, accommodation, wellbeing support and music-making activities for 25 vulnerable young people at our spring residential in April 2025.

Here’s how you can get involved and support our campaign:

• Donate between 3-10 December: Every pound you give will be matched, doubling your impact.

• Share our campaign: Help us spread the word on social media using the hashtags #ChristmasChallenge and #GivingTuesday.

• Follow us here for campaign updates:

  • Facebook and Instagram: @orchestrasforall

  • LinkedIn: @national-orchestra-for-all

A musical summer: National Orchestra for All musicians feel the excitement before their live performance.

Thank you for making a difference

We want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported OFA over the years. Your generosity enables us to continue our vital work, breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for all young musicians. We would also like to thank our partner and global strategic advisory firm, Hakluyt, for enabling us to participate in this fantastic campaign.

This festive season, help us make an even bigger difference by donating during our #ChristmasChallenge campaign. Let’s make music more accessible, one donation at a time!

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Orchestras for All partners with global advisory firm Hakluyt in a bid to boost inclusive music education

Transforming the lives of young musicians across the UK…

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with leading global strategic advisory firm, Hakluyt.

The partnership comes in a bid to amplify the charity’s impact and support young people aged 11-19 in the UK, who would not otherwise experience the benefits of group music-making due to the daily barriers they face – whether that’s as a result of physical disability, a mental health condition or learning difference, economic deprivation, rural isolation, or living in care or as a young carer.

This marks a pivotal moment for OFA, with Hakluyt’s generous support and expertise significantly enhancing our ability to fulfil our charitable mission and increase access to musical opportunities for young musicians, regardless of their background or personal circumstances, through our three inclusive programmes.

OFA’s Executive Director, Nick Thorne, said: “The Hakluyt team have been offering in-kind support since 2022 and for this, we are incredibly grateful. In 2024, Hakluyt has also committed to donating to OFA, making this relationship one of our most significant corporate partnerships to date, offering both financial support and advisory services.

“This critical funding will not only help OFA continue providing its life-changing musical programmes but also enable its participation in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024. Through this campaign, OFA aims to raise vital funds to ensure more young people can access inclusive and transformative music-making opportunities.”

Read more: ‘Investing in youth leadership is crucial for shaping the future of the arts,’ says National Orchestra for All alum, Elen >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All musicians perform live in concert at CBSO Centre in Birmingham.

A partnership with purpose

In addition to its financial contribution, Hakluyt’s global network of corporate clients and decision-makers will open new avenues for OFA to connect with like-minded individuals and organisations that align with our charity's mission and values. By leveraging these connections, OFA will be better positioned to grow its impact, sustain its operations and break down significant barriers to music education.

Kayo Yoshida, who co-leads Hakluyt’s work with Orchestras for All, said: “Orchestras for All does invaluable work sharing the benefits of music with young people who have often been shut out of creative opportunities. I am personally delighted to be working with them and look forward to our partnership flourishing over the coming years.”

Alexandra Davison, who also co-leads Hakluyt’s work with the charity, commented: “The opportunities that Orchestras for All offers can be life-changing for young people. The myriad benefits of musical education to children’s development and educational attainment are well-known, and Orchestras for All is an organisation with a proven track record of widening access to music for those who need it most.”

With social responsibility remaining a key priority for Hakluyt, the firm is supporting several other non-profit and cultural partners around the world, in sectors from education and social mobility, to humanitarian aid and the arts – including Singapore Repertory Theatre, British Museum, Sesame Workshop and St. Jude India ChildCare Centres.

Modulo memories: A group of school students enjoy social time during their summer 2024 Modulo Meet.

Strategic guidance from global experts

As part of its collaboration with OFA, Hakluyt will provide pro bono strategic advice on topics that are key to the charity’s success. Hakluyt’s team of advisors, with experience spanning industries from government to banking, the arts to non-profits, will offer valuable insights on navigating key policy issues – particularly in the context of the new Labour government’s agendas around inclusion, opportunity, health, education and the arts.

This guidance will not only support our team in refining OFA’s strategies but also allow our charity’s voice to be heard in critical policy debates, amplifying our advocacy efforts for the young people we work with.

Creating opportunities for young musicians

One of the most exciting prospects of this partnership is the potential for OFA’s young performers to showcase their musical skill at Hakluyt’s client events.

These live performances would offer OFA’s young musicians invaluable opportunities to demonstrate the transformative power of music to new audiences, while also gaining experience and building their confidence. This would enable us to elevate our young advocates but also highlight the deep impact OFA’s vital work has on their lives.

National Orchestra for All pianist, Noah, said: “NOFA is a second home for me – a second family, a safe space. I can't recall any moment here that I haven’t enjoyed. I feel respected and heard – and it's here that I've made some of my closest friends.

“The music is catchy, and the staff are absolutely amazing. If you want to play an instrument and they don’t already have it, they’ll find tutors to help you join in. I feel so proud to be part of this organisation and I so look forward to what's next of it.”

A participant from our summer 2024 Modulo Programme added: “Modulo is amazing because you have the opportunity to play in a group, you learn brand new pieces that you never even thought you would play, and the people here are super nice – they’ll help you no matter what skill level you are.”

Looking ahead to our Big Give Christmas campaign

Finally, the announcement of our new partnership with Hakluyt comes at a crucial time as we prepare to launch our Big Give Christmas campaign on Tuesday, 3 December 2024.

Hakluyt’s support has enabled our participation in this campaign, which will strengthen our ability to fundraise and offer inclusive music-making activities to young people nationwide.

On behalf of everyone at OFA, we would like to thank Hakluyt for its continued belief in our mission and look forward to sharing further updates on this partnership over the coming weeks. Together, we can continue to transform young lives through the power of music.

If you’ve been inspired by our work and would like to discuss partnership opportunities with Orchestras for All, please contact our Head of Fundraising, Isabelle Acred, at isabelle.acred@orchestrasforall.org.

Please donate what you can to our life-changing programmes:

Over the moon: Orchestras for All wins Youth Initiative of the Year at the Music Mark Awards 2024!

Pictured: NOFA alum, Haseeb, Executive Director, Nick, and Head of Programmes and Partnerships, Ellie.

Celebrating our commitment to breaking down musical barriers…

We are thrilled to announce that Orchestras for All (OFA) has been awarded Youth Initiative of the Year at the Music Mark Awards 2024.

Held yesterday evening (Monday 18 November), the uplifting award ceremony took place at Music Mark’s annual conference dinner and was attended by members of OFA’s core team as well as National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alum, former Youth Board member and Ambassador, Haseeb, who played a huge part in supporting our charity last season.

Sharing his personal experience with OFA, Haseeb said: “It feels like a family of people from all over the UK and not everyone is the same – there’s loads of differences between each member and it’s the fact that we can be part of something bigger together.

“It gives you a different perspective on other people’s lives as well because not everyone’s life is easy. It’s also helped with my confidence because I know that when I was young, I wasn’t very confident but after joining NOFA, I grew in confidence.”

Celebrating the work of organisations across the music education sector in five categories, championing sustainability, inclusion, youth-led initiatives, digital projects and unsung heroes, the awards were surely a night to remember for many – and certainly a significant moment in OFA’s history.

Read more: ‘Investing in youth leadership is crucial for shaping the future of the arts,’ says National Orchestra for All alum, Elen >

Our charity believes that every young person deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, creativity and connection that comes with orchestral music-making. Through our three inclusive programmes, NOFA, the Modulo Programme and Music Leadership Training, we’re committed to breaking down the barriers that can all too often stand between young people and life-changing musical experiences.

Sponsored by ABRSM, this award is a recognition of that vision – and proof of the positive things that happen when communities come together to empower young people.

Read more: Music matters: Orchestras for All invites young people in the UK to join its new season of inclusive programmes >

Our programmes have a broad reach and impact on young people, placing them at the heart of our work. We provide frequent opportunities for young people to take ownership of their learning during our live activity, whether that’s trying their hand at conducting the orchestra for the first time or helping to run our events.

We have youth roles on our Board of Trustees, appointing NOFA alums Beth White and Joelle Sogunro as our first Co-Chairs, alongside Susanna Eastburn MBE. Other NOFA alums have joined OFA’s core team as Youth Leadership Coordinator and Fundraising and Communications Coordinator, which has led them to travel across Europe to collaborate with youth music organisations such as Superar. We also have a dynamic Youth Board and each season, offer paid roles to 10 NOFA alums to join us as Ambassadors.

OFA takes home an award: Music Mark’s Youth Initiative of the Year, sponsored by ABRSM.

We’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Music Mark for this award and for shining a light on our organisation, working together to create a brighter, more inclusive future for music education. And of course, a huge thank you also goes out to the incredible young musicians who inspire us every day with their passion and resilience. This award belongs to them.

Plus, we’d like to give a special shout-out to ABRSM, our funders, supporters and individual donors – this would not have been possible without your belief in our mission and your tireless efforts to help us achieve it.

The Music Mark Awards highlight the transformative power of music and we couldn’t be more proud to have stood alongside many worthy winners on the night as well as the two other nominees in our category, Legacy A Cappella and Gateshead and South Tyneside Music Hub.

As we celebrate this new milestone, we’re even more motivated to keep pushing boundaries, challenging norms and making orchestral music-making accessible to all. Thank you for being part of our journey and here’s to another year of breaking down barriers!

Inspired by our work? Please make a difference today and donate what you can: