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.”
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!
