From Glasgow to Liverpool and London: meet our new team who will embrace the digital workplace

Pictured: Ellie Dunachie, Paula Morgan and Sam Williams

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce today its commitment to being truly national with new colleagues joining the management team from Glasgow, Liverpool and London.

Despite new challenges faced over the past few years as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Orchestras for All has also embraced new opportunities and evolved and developed in response.

Nick Thorne, OFA’s Executive Director, says: “The world had to adapt quickly to working remotely back in March 2020 and we have taken the opportunity to adopt this way of working and ensure that our resources are no longer tied to our London office. I’m excited we have the opportunity to be able take this shift to learn and work with skilled colleagues all over the UK.

“There are so many benefits to embracing remote/hybrid working, not least the personal reasons of accessibility, flexibility, wellbeing and the ability to spend more time with loved ones or forgotten hobbies. The move will have a positive impact on the environment and will enable us to gain regional perspectives and understanding in addition to our colleagues already based in Cornwall, Lancashire and London.”

Joining the team over the next few weeks are Ellie Dunachie nee. Carnegie-Brown (Head of Programmes and Partnerships), Paula Morgan and Sam Williams (Programme Managers for National Orchestra for All and the Modulo and Music Leadership Training programmes, respectively).

Let’s find out more about Ellie, Paula and Sam…

National Orchestra for All musicians embrace the digital world at NOFA Festival 2021

Tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from and why music is important to you.

Ellie: I grew up in London, although my family home is now in Scotland. I joined our local church choir when I was seven years’ old, which I absolutely loved, and was lucky enough to learn the piano, flute and recorder in primary school. Music has played a huge role in my life ever since.

Paula: Throughout my professional career, I have worked with grassroots organisations breaking down barriers to the arts and creating new opportunities for people living in areas affected by poverty, refugees, asylum seekers, people with disabilities, and more. I am incredibly passionate about the arts and the transformative ways that it can help people, and feel very proud to be bringing this to OFA. 

Sam: My musical journey began almost as soon as I was born as my mum ran a record shop and both parents played instruments at home. I learned the guitar, piano, clarinet, bass clarinet and oboe as a child, although I was truly terrible at playing the oboe! Alongside these instruments, I sang in choirs, rock bands and as a soloist in variety shows and musicals.

Why is group music-making so vital for young people today?

Sam: For the past 13 years I have taught music in schools in the North West of England. I am proud to have seen a number of my students go on to careers in music. Helping students to improve, grow in confidence and achieve their dreams has been my most rewarding experience.

Ellie: The most important thing is that every young person has the opportunity to make music. If you’re in a supportive environment, making music can be incredible and so much fun. From personal experience, I also know how it can build confidence and skills, and also lead to life-long friends.

Young musicians play ‘Spoitoresa’ during National Orchestra for All’s winter rehearsal at Westminster School

Paula: Music can help channel how you are feeling, build connections that have been lost and also rebuild confidence. It is a great way to focus on an activity rather than what may be going on inside you and give you an outlet.

I know myself the first time we played together as a band, I felt like parts of me were being fitted back together like a jigsaw that had some pieces missing I wasn’t even aware of. And it’s fun! Looking around seeing everyone smiling, enjoying themselves and feeling proud is priceless. I can’t think of a better way to bring young people back together. 

Share some fun facts you’d like people to know about you

Paula: I was in a K-POP class for a year in Seoul even though I couldn't speak any Korean, so just had to follow the teacher’s moves. I have an encyclopaedic knowledge of Ru Paul’s Drag Race lip sync performances. When I hear a song, I can usually name the drag queens who have performed it.

Sam: I have an eclectic taste in music and perform music from as far back as the 1500s… sometimes in full costume!

Ellie: I used to take my recorder on our family holiday, and my younger sister would always hide it. I only recently found out that my parents actually asked her to do this… to this day I still have no idea why. I’ve also been skydiving and sung for the Queen!

Ellie, what’s your involvement in the Association of British Orchestras conference in Glasgow?

Ellie: I am speaking at the ABO conference this week as part of Find Your Way about post-covid leadership. Find Your Way is a nine-month programme focused on learning about and developing your own leadership style.

I’ve already learnt so much and am really looking forward to the conference this year. While I’m in Glasgow, I’m also very excited to be meeting Paula for a coffee!

Find out more about the existing Orchestras for All team here >

Orchestras for All’s Music Changes Lives campaign raises over £17,000!

A heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, donated, and offered support to Music Changes Lives 2021.

Orchestras for All is delighted to announce that it has raised a grand total of £17,339 as part of its Music Changes Lives winter campaign.

The moving appeal, which launched on Giving Tuesday last November and continued throughout December, aimed to spread awareness about the positive impact that orchestral music-making can have on young peoples’ lives – in particular, those who struggle to access music education in the UK.

This is due to the significant daily challenges that many young people currently face – whether that’s a physical disability, mental health condition, economic deprivation or rural isolation.

Following an inspiring launch event, which was attended online by sector friends and hosted by a dynamic team of young people, the charity has been able to raise vital funds for its three powerful programmes thanks to the incredible generosity of the public and match funding from Harriet’s Trust.

Katharine Allenby, Development Manager at OFA, said: “We're delighted that the message about what music can do and the impact it has on many young lives has been shared far and wide. This campaign has enabled us to welcome new supporters into our network to work with us, providing musical opportunities for young musicians facing barriers to music-making – we are so grateful for your support. Thank you!”

Read more: 13 smart ways to become a greener musician >

In the campaign video (watch above), nine National Orchestra for All (NOFA) musicians share why being part of the OFA family means so much to them. Alumnus Caleb, who had previously lacked in self-esteem, said: “After joining the orchestra, I felt liberated. I feel full of confidence; I feel powerful.”

Young violinist, Grace, who lives with autism, commented: “I realised that it’s okay to struggle because everyone has their own struggles and people will be very supportive of that.”

Read more: “I have social anxiety and didn’t think I was up to meeting new people – but National Orchestra for All is like a giant family,” says young violinist >

Current NOFA member, Cameron, who has ADHD and had previously faced barriers to music participation in his local area, added: “When I joined, it was like a dream come true. It was like everything had been solved; I could be a bit happier and my mum could be happier as well.”

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank everyone who participated, donated, and offered support to Music Changes Lives 2021– without you, the work we do would not be possible.

To fund our life-changing programmes, please donate today >

‘I have social anxiety and didn’t think I was up to meeting new people – but National Orchestra for All is like a giant family,’ says young violinist

“In NOFA, it really doesn’t matter if you live with a disability – you can still play music.”

Meet Tianci. The first violinist enjoyed a quick tea break with us at Westminster School during National Orchestra for All’s recent winter session – the first in-person rehearsal for the ensemble in almost two years, owing to the devastating effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Here the Grade 8 musician tells us her moving story and shares words of wisdom with other young people who may be struggling…

What inspired you to pick up the violin?

I play the violin because you can do many things with a violin. You can pluck it, you can play bow on it, you can do a tremolo. If you picked guitar, I think you could only pluck it! I think if you tried to bow on it, it wouldn’t really work. But I mean, there is the viola and the cello and the double bass but I think the violin has the most – and it’s easy to carry.

You could say the same for the viola but I’m kinda used to the strings of B, D, A and E, rather than C. I mean it would work because they’re still in fifths, if you’re trying to play a scale but I think I’m more interested and open to violin.

What music are you enjoying playing at the moment?

The [NOFA] piece where it involves pizzicato – my mum printed the score for me and I practiced it before I came here today [to the NOFA Winter Session]. It’s one of the old pieces, starts with an S… ‘Spoitoresa’!

Read more: Watch young people facing barriers to music-making share moving words in powerful new video >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All (NOFA) violinist, Tianci, tunes up ahead of her first in-person rehearsal

How does it feel to be part of NOFA?

It feels good, it feels kind of like a giant family. Not to make it like weird but you know. It feels like everyone is your friend.

Has Orchestras for All helped to break down barriers to music-making for you?

Before I joined the orchestra, I think because I’m not really social and because I have social anxiety, I thought I wasn’t really up to meeting new people. But how I described it earlier, it’s like a giant family. I feel like I won’t be scared, I’ll be proud because I did go through all the playing. Everyone’s nice here, we’re all open. In my previous experiences at school, I got bullied but nobody bullies here. Everyone is really nice here.

You know Lucy [Hale]? We all value her, we all miss her – she kind of connected all of us in a way. That made us all like each other and be friends with everyone. Even like adult to adult, adult to child, child to child. It doesn’t matter what age, she joined all of us in a way. She still lives inside all of us.

Read more: A tribute to Lucy Hale, National Orchestra for All's former Young Composer-in-Residence >

Here it doesn’t matter if you’re disabled because you can still play music. You can be in a wheelchair and still play the trumpet or the clarinet. You could be in a wheelchair and play the violin. You could have a stammer and still play the violin. ‘Cos like music is like a new language. It’s a language we can all communicate by – the playing of music, if you know what I mean?

“Music is a new language – a language we can all communicate by,” says NOFA violinist, Tianci

Where do you picture yourself in 10 years’ time?

Now I do some conducting and some pieces for an orchestra. It’s around where I live in Richmond. I conduct in the orchestra and imagine one day being like a giant conductor or a lead violinist, ya know?

Read more: Orchestras for All’s Artistic Patron, Sian Edwards, shares her expert advice on how to lead an ensemble >

Like when we went to Leeds, there was a lead violinist who was really confident and I thought I just want to be like him. I think his name was Isaac or something, I’m not too sure. But yeah, I just want to be like a main violinist one day, enjoying my time.

If you could share a message with other young people who are considering joining an orchestra, what would it be?

I would probably say don’t be scared what other people think because their thoughts don’t matter. Their thoughts don’t matter to you. It’s your goal and if you just continue playing, you’re gonna get your goal.

There were loads of opinions about me before – I didn’t take it to person and now I’m still playing violin, Grade 8. That’s my main message I would say – don’t give up no matter what anyone else says.

Conductor Justin Fung (left) leads the way in Westminster School during a National Orchestra for All session

If Tianci’s story has tugged a heartstring and you would like to help our charity amplify its mission, inspire positive change and provide regular support to aspiring young musicians across the country, you can support us in the following three ways:

1. Please donate what you can

Every donation made – no matter how big or small – will bring us one step closer towards making music education accessible to all. Please also consider becoming one of our regular donors, funding our three powerful programmes through monthly donations.

2. Share our video with your network

Click the button below to access the link for our Music Changes Lives video and share it far and wide with friends, family and colleagues to spread the word about our life-changing work.

3. Subscribe to our newsletter

Join the conversation and stay in the loop with all the latest news from our charity, updates from across the sector and inspiring stories from our young people.

Watch young people facing barriers to music-making share moving words in powerful new video

“When I joined the orchestra, it was like a dream come true. It was like everything had been solved.”

Orchestras for All (OFA) has released a heartwarming new video in a bid to improve access to group music-making for young people in the UK.

Shared via YouTube, the four-minute clip (watch above) tells the inspiring stories of nine National Orchestra for All (NOFA) musicians who had previously struggled to access musical opportunities owing to the significant daily challenges in their lives – including economic deprivation, physical and mental health conditions, emotional, social and behavioural difficulties, being in care and acting as a young carer.

NOFA alumnus and trumpet player, Caleb, said: “Before joining the orchestra, I was timid. I lacked in confidence and self-esteem.”

Young violinist, Grace, commented: “Because I've got autism and other special needs, a lot of things I had auditioned for didn't let me in.”

Current NOFA member, Cameron, added: “Before I joined the orchestra, I was struggling and home-schooled. No schools would really take me in – I had no music clubs to go to.”

Read more: ‘National Orchestra for All is so diverse – but we’re united by a note,’ says 19-year-old trumpeter >

“Before joining the orchestra, I was timid. I lacked in confidence and self-esteem,” said NOFA alumnus, Caleb.

And they are not alone, with thousands of other young people across the country currently unable to access ensemble music-making owing to the effect of the coronavirus pandemic and ongoing cuts to music funding in maintained schools.

Upon joining NOFA – one of OFA’s three powerful programmes and the only completely inclusive national youth orchestra in the country – Caleb, Grace and Cameron were able to leave their worries at the door and experience the many benefits that come with playing in an 100-strong ensemble, from forging lifelong friendships to improved social and communication skills.

Caleb said: “After joining the orchestra, I felt liberated. I feel full of confidence; I feel powerful.”

Grace added: “I realised that it’s okay to struggle because everyone has their own struggles and people will be very supportive of that.”

NOFA members enjoy a moment of music and togetherness online during the coronavirus pandemic

Read more: RPS Awards 2021 – Orchestras for All shortlisted in Impact category >

And for Cameron, having access to new musical opportunities meant everything. He said: “When I joined, it was like a dream come true. It was like everything had been solved; I could be a bit happier and my mum could be happier as well.”

The touching video forms part of OFA’s winter campaign, Music Changes Lives, which aims to spread awareness of common barriers to orchestral participation and encourage donations to the charity – each to be doubled on Giving Tuesday (30 November) and throughout the month of December, thanks to generous match funding from Harriet’s Trust.

This means a £10, £20 or £50 donation would see a total of £20, £40 or £100 go directly towards supporting young musicians most in need, helping OFA reach its fundraising target of £20,000.

National Orchestra for All (NOFA) musicians, Tashan (left) and Caleb (right), share their inspiring stories

The campaign comes as OFA reaches its 10-year milestone of life-changing work: in NOFA’s current cohort of 100 diverse young members, 98 per cent faced cultural barriers before joining, 55 per cent were unable to play in an orchestra due to autism, a physical disability, learning difference, or social, emotional or behavioural difficulties, and 37 per cent come from underrepresented groups in the professional orchestral sector.

Read more: Music teachers and students invited to join classrooms nationwide in ‘joyful’ music-making programme >

While there is still much to be done across the arts sector, with hundreds of school pupils teaming up for OFA’s Modulo Programme each year and a growing network of Music Leadership Training participants, there are plenty of reasons to feel hopeful.

“You put all your energy into playing and it feels like you’re part of a big family,” says NOFA alumnus, Siana

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If Music Changes Lives has tugged a heartstring and you would like to help our charity amplify its mission, inspire positive change and provide regular support to aspiring young musicians across the country, you can support us in the following three ways:

1. Please donate what you can

Every donation made – no matter how big or small – will bring us one step closer towards making music education accessible to all. Please also consider becoming one of our regular donors, funding our three powerful programmes through monthly donations.

2. Share our video with your network

Click the button below to access the link for our Music Changes Lives video and share it far and wide with friends, family and colleagues to spread the word about our life-changing work.

3. Subscribe to our newsletter

Join the conversation and stay in the loop with all the latest news from our charity, updates from across the sector and inspiring stories from our young people.

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Esteemed music educator Professor Nate Holder announced as first host in free webinar series for music leaders

“I think it’s important for us to understand why we do the things that we do, in order to make it better for the young people around us.”

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce that leading saxophonist, author, speaker and music education consultant, Professor Nate Holder, will be hosting the launch of its live webinar series for 2021-2022.

The series, which commences on 7 December, forms part of Music Leadership Training (MLT) – the charity’s continuing professional development (CPD) programme, specially designed to equip music teachers and leaders with the tools and skills they need to set up and run inclusive ensembles in under-resourced schools and community groups.

With thousands of music educators across the UK still facing significant challenges as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic, the need to provide support and improve access to music-making is growing.

Nate, who is currently serving as International Chair of Music Education at the Royal Northern College of Music, is perhaps best known for penning several children’s books – including I Wish I Didn’t Quit: Music Lessons (2018) and Where Are All The Black Female Composers (2020).

Ahead of the event, Nate said: “I’m really happy to be doing a session in association with Orchestras for All, called ‘Music educators: why do we do what we do?’. That’s a question I ask myself often. 

“Why do I do what I do? Why do I do it in the way that I do it? I think it’s important for us as we’re learning and growing in 2021 to understand why we do the things that we do, in order to make it better for the young people around us.”

Read more: ‘National Orchestra for All is so diverse – but we’re united by a note,’ says 19-year-old trumpeter >

Pictured: Professor Nate Holder

To address this topic, Nate’s live Zoom session will be exploring key topics such as whiteness in music education, diversity versus decolonisation and how relationships form an integral part of a music educator’s practise.

He said: “The focus of this session is really going to look at our practises and try to attempt to break down certain misconceptions and broaden our horizons, so that the young people that we work with can feel the benefit of a more inclusive and diverse education.

“Of course, this is just one session and one session won’t fix everything, but I think it’s important to start somewhere.”

Alongside his expert insights, attendees will be encouraged to interact during the event and share their personal experiences in music education, with the key aim of making the industry a better and safer place for all.

Learn more about Music Leadership Training >

To complement OFA’s webinar series, 10 online modules are also available as part of MLT – providing flexible, hands-on training through short videos filmed in real life contexts and in partnership with leading practitioners.

As well as covering traditional conducting techniques, the course invites users to reflect on approaches to group composing, learning music by ear, teaching music without notation and arranging music for inclusive ensembles. 

Conductor Sian Edwards shares her expertise with participants during a Music Leadership Training session

In 2020-2021, a total of 190 participants enjoyed virtual and face-to-face sessions. Tor, a music teacher and recent MLT participant, said: “It was all so, so useful! I came away with new techniques for conducting in 2/4, which will be invaluable. The bit where Sian [Edwards] focused on my piece was also immensely helpful – very personalised and inspiring.

“This was exactly what I needed to keep my spark about ensembles during a tough time for music at schools. It has given me renewed energy for getting our groups back again as soon as possible. I am inspired to do more conducting training because of this, so thank you to Sian and Orchestras for All for arranging the training.”

While OFA’s forthcoming webinar series is free to attend, participants are invited to donate what they can to help the charity continue its life-changing work.

Music educators: why do we do what we do? will be available to livestream via Zoom on Tuesday, 7 December 2021 at 17:30 GMT.

Sign up for Professor Nate Holder’s webinar >

RPS Awards: winners announced for 2021 as Abel Selaocoe and The Hermes Experiment stun with live performances

Pictured: Abel Selaocoe and Ryan Bancroft (left) and The Hermes Experiment (right). Credit: Twitter @kate_caro and @TheHExperiment

“Music will help us through anything, so long as we help the musicians who make it,” says RPS Chief Executive, James Murphy.

Last night, the Royal Philharmonic Society Awards 2021 announced its winners in a glittering live ceremony at London’s iconic Wigmore Hall.

Hosted by BBC Radio 3’s Katie Derham and RPS Chief Executive, James Murphy, it was surely a memorable event for attendees following almost two years of music venue closures during the coronavirus pandemic.

James Murphy, said: “Once again, in times of struggle, our eyes and ears have been opened to the essential role that music plays. Musicians have shown us what role they can play in fortifying the nation.

“Everyone we applaud tonight is representative of countless more creative forces across the country, many onstage working their magic as we stand here. Here’s to that bright constellation of music-makers.”

Read more: Teenage flautist quizzes Orchestras for All founder as charity celebrates 10-year milestone >

English National Opera’s Breathe scheme wins the RPS Award for Impact. Credit: Twitter @E_N_O

Supported by ABRSM, English National Opera’s inspiring scheme, Breathe, took home the prize for the Impact category – with Orchestras for All (OFA) and Live Music Now both making it as proud finalists.

Discover Orchestras for All’s programmes >

Led by ENO Director of Baylis, Jenny Mollica, and delivered in close collaboration with Imperial College Healthcare, the online breathing and wellbeing programme was developed to help recovering Covid-19 patients struggling with breathlessness and associated anxiety through singing.

While speaking about OFA’s efforts during the pandemic, James Murphy told audiences that the charity had become something of a ‘national treasure’ thanks to its three powerful programmes and culture of inclusive music-making.

Other winners on the night included Scottish violinist, Nicola Benedetti, who was presented with the Instrumentalist Award for the ‘outstanding quality and scope’ of her performances, presented digitally or for a live audience.

Members of the Orchestras for All team celebrate at the RPS Awards 2021 after being shortlisted for Impact.

Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason took to the stage to accept the Storytelling award for her book, House of Music – a powerful and heartrending memoir detailing the remarkable journey of her musical family in a country divided by class and race.

During her speech, the mother of seven said: “House of Music is many things, but it is at its heart about gratitude.”

Read more: ‘Coming from a working class family, classical music seemed so inaccessible’, says teenage clarinetist >

Meanwhile, Hilary Campbell and the Bristol Choral Society made it to the top spot for the newly introduced Inspiration Award – as voted for by the public – and BBC National Orchestra of Wales’ principal conductor, Ryan Bancroft, was commended for his ‘electrifying concerts’ with the RPS Conductor award.

Chamber ensemble The Hermes Experiment perform Piazzolla at the RPS Awards. Credit: @TheHExperiment

Tribute was also paid to star mezzo-soprano, Jennifer Johnston, with the RPS award for Singer, Dani Howard’s Trombone Concerto won Large-Scale Composition, and chamber ensemble, The Hermes Experiment, collected the prize for Young Artist before treating audiences to their dazzling arrangement of Piazzolla’s ‘Concert of d’aujourd’hui’ from Histoire du Tango.

Other highlights included an energetic opening performance of ‘Ka Bohaleng’ from South African cellist, Abel Selaocoe, and a rousing recital from bassoonist Ashby Mayes – who received financial assistance from RPS in 2018 for buying his bassoon and is now an undergraduate student at the Royal College of Music.

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank the Royal Philharmonic Society and Wigmore Hall for a wonderful evening of music and togetherness, and extend our congratulations to all fellow nominees and worthy winners at this year’s Awards.

To fund Orchestras for All’s life-changing programmes, please donate today >

Teenage flautist quizzes Orchestras for All founder as charity celebrates 10-year milestone

“The youth voice has always been fundamental and important – we adults have just taken far too long to sit up and recognise that.”

Orchestras for All (OFA) has been on quite the journey since its inception almost a decade ago, where it first revealed its mission to kickstart a vibrant new culture of inclusive music-making in the UK.

Fast forward to 2021 and the charity proudly supports thousands of aspiring young musicians and music educators through its three powerful programmes: National Orchestra for All (NOFA), Modulo and Music Leadership Training.

To mark this new milestone in the charity’s 10-year history, NOFA ambassador, Phoebe, shared a virtual tea break with its Founding Director, Marianna Hay MBE, to reflect on what has been achieved so far and what the future holds.

Describing her experience as a former NOFA flautist (watch video above), Phoebe said: “There’s no doubt that it’s such a successful programme. It’s been really nice because I’ve [grown up with] the orchestra, first playing as a 15-year-old and now I’m on the other side [as an ambassador]. It was really nice to meet people – where you came from mattered but it also didn’t matter.

“[In NOFA], you hear all these different accents but when you play the music, you’re all just part of the orchestra. Now we’ve got people flying in from [Northern] Ireland and Wales, all coming together – it’s honestly so amazing!”

Read more: ‘National Orchestra for All is so diverse – but we’re united by a note,’ says 19-year-old trumpeter >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All Ambassador, Phoebe (left), and OFA founder, Marianna Hay MBE (right)

In NOFA’s current cohort of 100 diverse young members, 98 per cent faced cultural barriers before joining, 55 per cent were unable to play in an orchestra due to autism, a physical disability, learning difference, or social, emotional or behavioural difficulties, and 37 per cent come from underrepresented groups.

And with hundreds of school pupils teaming up for Modulo each year and a growing network of MLT participants – who have regularly gathered together online despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic – there’s certainly much to be proud of at OFA.

Read more: RPS Awards 2021: Orchestras for All shortlisted in ‘Impact’ category >

Sharing her inspiration behind the musical initiative, Marianna explained: “First and foremost, it was the young people that I had been teaching in a secondary school in London. I was inspired by the extraordinary commitment of the students, many of whom didn’t have much support back at home or in other parts of their life.

“They’d come to the music block every day during breaks and lunch times, form friendship groups out of it, and their love of it was so authentic and real – despite the fact they hadn’t had much support or experience.”

She continued: “Another inspiring person in the journey of OFA was the head teacher of the school where I’d worked, Truda White, who promoted the idea that music could be socially transformative for young people. It felt as though there was a glaringly obvious gap for a national orchestra in this country that could be accessed by people of any musical ability, where cost was not an issue, where they didn’t have to audition, and where it was a truly welcoming and inclusive experience.

National Orchestra for All (NOFA) members gather online to make music together during the pandemic

While founding Orchestras for All may have somewhat fulfilled Marianna’s vision for improving access to music-making, the Scotland-based mother of two admits there is still much to be done.

Sharing her hopes for the future of the charity, Marianna said: “Orchestras for All will be a totally leading light in what it means to combine wellbeing with creative endeavour, and the Modulo Programme has the potential to be in every region across the country. Ultimately though, we’re fulfilling a need here, so should the charity even need to exist in 10 years’ time?”

But for Phoebe, who faces daily challenges living with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and had previously experienced barriers to orchestral participation, there’s an alternative: “I would like to think (just because I’ve enjoyed it so much) that rather than OFA not existing, we’d shift our views to the experience of people coming together when the focus isn’t on the problem of equal access to music.”

With youth voice at the heart of Orchestras for All’s 2021-2026 five-year strategy, Phoebe’s thoughts have never been more influential and are shared by many other young musicians across the charity – including its inspiring trustees, Young Leaders and recently recruited youth board.

Marianna said: “The youth voice has always been fundamental and important – we adults have just taken far too long to sit up and recognise that.”

To give the gift of music to young musicians like Phoebe, please donate today >

‘National Orchestra for All is so diverse – but we’re united by a note,’ says 19-year-old trumpeter

Meet Kate. The Belfast-based trumpeter and university student first joined National Orchestra for All (NOFA) as a young person facing barriers to music-making. Now, she’s an ambassador for the group. We shared a virtual tea break to find out more about her musical journey…

What inspired you to play the trumpet?

When I was in primary school, the City of Belfast School of Music used to visit and they would test us to see who had a natural musical ability. Of course, I wanted to play violin because I thought it was very dainty, but I got told that my fingers were too small! I was given a trumpet instead and at the time I was heartbroken. I was like, ‘Urgh, I just want to play the violin!’. But as soon as I went to my first trumpet lesson, I knew I was meant to play this instrument. It was so me!

At first, I actually played a cornet because I was too small for a trumpet. When I went to secondary school they didn't have any brass lessons but because I loved learning it so much, I auditioned for those and did some aural theory classes as well. I just loved it! I think it’s so interesting to learn an instrument that is typically associated with males. In most of the bands and orchestras I've been in, it's very male-dominated in the brass section, so to be this small girl walking in with such a loud instrument feels very empowering.

What music do you like to play?

For brass, I really enjoying playing show music. In our school band, it was great to hear such a big sound from this section. But every section has its own little flavour and every part is significant. In NOFA, even though we usually play orchestral music it feels like that as well, where everyone’s part has such meaning, and it’s just so good to hear everybody come together. Even the quietest of sounds will still convey the emotion or story of the music.

Read more: ‘We need to support the next generation of change makers’ – arts expert explains why wellbeing is vital for young musicians >

Otherwise, I’m a bit of an old soul – I have very dad-like taste in music! I’m obsessed with the ‘60s. At the moment, I love the Beatles. They’re the kings of rock in my opinion! And Blondie’s Parallel Lines is a great album, especially the song ‘Heart of Glass’. When I was younger, my parents would have had me listening to a lot of ska. I also like Bob Marley – he’s a very chill guy and his music is great to study to. He’s one of those artists that you can just vibe to when you’re doing life, he’s so accessible for everybody.

NOFA ambassadors share their musical favourites >

Tell us about your journey with Orchestras for All.

Compared to the other ambassadors, I joined Orchestras for All (OFA) quite late, when I was 16. I was nominated by one of the teachers at my school, who is actually a member of the wellbeing team at the charity. I remember the first time I attended a session – I was so nervous because I felt like a tiny fish in a big pond. I’m from a very small town and the majority of the orchestra usually comes from the mainland of the UK, so it was a bit intimidating.

But the way it was run made it accessible for everybody. At the time I was studying my GCSE music and thought, ‘Hm... I don’t know whether to do an A Level or not,’ but OFA gave me the confidence to perform, understand a piece of music when I looked at it and also know how to speak about it. I didn't feel like I had a lot of confidence in myself and they were like, ‘You should play! What’s the worst that can happen if you sound bad?’ The only way you can move is forwards – you can’t really move down in your ability. And now I’m an ambassador! I just love the message that it represents. It’s so inclusive and you meet so many people.

Pictured: Ambassador Kate (middle left) enjoys a moment of togetherness with National Orchestra for All

Has Orchestras for All broken down any music-making barriers for you?

Well, in Northern Ireland, music is a massive part of where we come from and it can be really competitive. But in NOFA, it’s not competitive at all. You’re never stepping on anybody’s toes – people want to see you thrive. It’s refreshing! I was lucky that at a young age, I was able to go to the School of Music because my parents were able to get me in and fund me to go. But I think the thing we need to focus on is the “luck” part. It shouldn't be about “being lucky” and it shouldn’t be about the school you go to, the parents you have or the status you have in your community.

Orchestras for All is an organisation that isn’t based on luck, ability or your background – they’re so focused on you as a person as well as a musician. They care about how you feel, how you think and how you respond to certain practice techniques – and the communication in wellbeing groups isn’t something I had experienced before.

Read more: RPS Awards 2021: Orchestras for All shortlisted in ‘Impact’ category >

What’s the best part about playing in an inclusive ensemble?

In some bands I’ve played in you have your brass, your winds and maybe a violin now and then, but Orchestras for All includes the piano and even melodicas, guitars and ukuleles – diverse instruments that you wouldn't typically see in an orchestra if they were to go and perform. I think it’s so cool and exciting that these are added in! That sort of representation and seeing your instrument in an orchestra inspires young people.

Some young people think that classical music is all: “You need to be able to read sheet music and can only perform if there’s a piece of music in front of you,” but in NOFA, we often play pieces from memory. It’s amazing to use your ears, have that sense of camaraderie and be in an environment where your conductor actually lets you lift your head to look at your friends and do something funny to make them laugh during a rehearsal! We appreciate that. I think some conductors should loosen up a wee bit and that’s what I like about our conductor, Emma – she makes it so much more fun and inviting.

If you could give one piece of advice to other young people who are considering joining an orchestra like NOFA, what would it be?

Do not be afraid to play out. I’m still a victim of this where I’m afraid to play out sometimes, but the worst that can happen is that someone audibly hears something wrong within your section and you stop. But it’s also the best thing that can happen because they can isolate that little bit you're struggling with and actually help you to perfect it.

Read more: ‘We can be a part of something bigger together’, says teenage trombonist and youth board member >

Chances are, there’s other people who are struggling with that same bit all around the orchestra. If one person is finding something hard, I can guarantee there’s about three other people who are finding it hard too – they’re just too proud to admit it. So, just play out! It’s all a big learning experience.

And finally, please complete the sentence: Orchestras for All is...

…a community. A place where you can go to learn about music and hear a variety of styles that you might not hear in your hometown. You make great memories and new friends, it’s amazing. When you’re an ambassador, you have to get along and work together but even outside of NOFA, we’re still as close as ever. OFA brings people together through music.

A fun fact about me is that I love to dress as if I’m in the ‘60s and ‘70s! I love going out and wearing the massive go-go boots, with everyone looking at me as if I’m a complete weirdo. I think it’s hilarious. But with OFA, I don’t think there's anything more powerful than being able to connect with a group of young people who are all wonderfully different in their own way.

We shouldn’t have anything in common since we’re all so diverse, but we’re united by a note – whether that’s a C or a C#! OFA is a place where young people can come together to appreciate and enjoy something really accessible – and that thing is music.

To fund a life-changing programme for musicians like Kate, please donate today > 

‘We need to support the next generation of change makers’ – arts expert explains why wellbeing is vital for young musicians

From singing in Elvis tribute bands to nurturing creative young minds across the country, meet our inspiring new Wellbeing Lead, Elli…

Tell us a little about yourself.

Hi, I’m Eleanor Chapman (also known as Elli!) and live in Lancaster. I’ve always loved singing, performing and the theatre. Working behind the scenes wasn’t something I had originally thought possible, but I landed my first paid job in the arts at my local theatre as a box office assistant. It was seasonal and part-time. I was 17 and felt like I had won the lottery.

That same summer, I could be found most Sundays playing the trumpet on Morecambe prom as a member of Baybeat Street Band – run by music education charity, More Music. But it was about so much more than technical skill: it gave me spirit. I was a young, single parent who was now part of a community of drummers, instrumentalists and dancers. These creative experiences got me out of the house, developed my confidence in social situations, helped me find my tribe and unlocked my full potential.

I became hooked on the transformative power of the arts and followed a career path in culture participation for 25 years. I’ve worked as a lead facilitator for BBC Blast on Tour, Super Mentor for Youth Music, and Arts Award Regional Coordinator, among other roles. It’s been varied, but has always involved young people and using the arts to help them progress. 

What does music mean to you?

It’s a continuous mixtape that provides the soundtrack to my life – from my daily routine to important rites of passage. (On cassette, of course – I am a ‘90s girl after all.) It’s the track that goes off with my morning alarm to help me achieve the impossible and get out of bed, or the playlist that motivates me to get a report over the line. It’s my go-to for every emotion – whether that’s a dance track for feeling jubilant, or music to reflect and evoke memories.

Read more: Music teachers and students invited to join classrooms nationwide in ‘joyful’ music-making programme >

Pictured: Wellbeing Lead, Elli (middle left), enjoys an afternoon of music-making at NOFA Festival 2021

Music has afforded me so much opportunity. As a teenager I performed and sang wherever I could. In my 20s I took on the role of Cath Westmoreland (an opera-singing backing vocalist) in a tribute band that played for different Elvis’s across the UK – I loved travelling around in a bus with other musicians! I’ve also taught musical theatre to college students and held community vocal sessions for young people in village halls, prisons, travellers’ sites and skate parks.

While music has taught me a trade, it’s also been about experiences, friends, colleagues and learning new skills. It has got me through the best of times and the worst of times. It’s consistent. Wonderfully non-judgemental. For me, it’s about wellbeing and has always been the one area of my life where I do not come with predefining or assumptive labels – the care leaver, school refuser, in a wheelchair. I’m just Elli, a musician and performer.

Have there been any standout moments in your career so far?

In 2012, I was awarded the Natwest EveryWoman Gaia Award for social entrepreneurship and became a Clore Fellow in 2017. I am deeply proud of these moments and think that’s what people might expect me to pick, But actually, it is often the most discreet of times that others might pass off as fairly meaningless that are my standout moments. Tiny shifts that are crucial to individual success and development.

My work has always been about creating a space where young people can produce and grow creatively. Opportunities that allow them to be curious, explore and nourish their unique capabilities. That could be enabling a young person to make and screen their first film, like when I was regional project director for BFI Film Academy, or watching a young artist respond to their first professional commission at Latitude Festival, where I produced the Inbetweeners Area. Young people never fail to inspire me. They are like chicken soup for the soul.

“Young people never fail to inspire me,” says Elli. “They are like chicken soup for the soul.”

You’ve just joined Orchestras for All (OFA) as Wellbeing Lead. That’s unique in the sector – what are your ambitions for it?

My vision is for deep-rooted, long-term change, using the arts as a means of encouraging young people to progress, develop their interests, sustain newfound skills and flourish in all aspects of their lives. To be ambitious and unapologetic about demanding the absolute best for the young people we work with – and bold about the ways in which we do it.

OFA members must be shown how to manage their own wellbeing and understand what they need in order to be the best they can. As OFA staff, we are responsible for removing any barriers to participation and will offer both high challenge and high support.

We have a golden opportunity to refocus the lens on what talent and intelligence can look like – not based on linearity or conformity, but organic process. This is particularly important for young people who might not follow traditional rites of passage. Instead of hiding behind readily available clichés and stereotypes, we should consider how their life experiences or challenging circumstances give them a unique skill base to offer the world of work.

Read more: 5 of the best ways to protect your wellbeing >

Why is wellbeing so important for young people today?

Young people literally have the weight of the world on their shoulders. An increasingly fast-changing and interconnected world, where many of the jobs of today will be obsolete by tomorrow. Most people currently living on the earth are under the age of 30, so why doesn’t this huge source of talent, innovation and energy for change translate into a stronger and more productive workforce?

It’s imperative that we equip them with the skills, confidence and aspirations to tackle some of the biggest problems facing our human family. As a sector, we need to support and develop the next generation of change makers.

I utterly believe in their capabilities. It is all too easy to fall into the trap of creating too big a distinction between ‘young people’ and ‘adults’. A common perception is that experience can only come from age and therefore only older people make good leaders. Are we collectively disregarding the impact of having leaders start early? We need to step up to the plate and support young people to run the world.

If you could share three top tips on wellbeing, what would they be?

1. Take a moment to breathe and be present in the moment.

2. Try and do five things every day that are just for you. These could be small things – playing your favourite tune on the piano, painting your nails, talking to a friend or family member, or spending time with your nose in a book.

3. Make a gratitude jar and fill it with moments (written on post-its) about things you have done that made you happy or proud, or other memories you want to keep. Take them out whenever you need a reminder or are having a bad day.

And finally, please complete the sentence. Orchestras for All is…

…a diverse base of talent, not a singular conception of what equals ability.

To fund a life-changing programme for young musicians, please donate today >

RPS Awards 2021: Orchestras for All shortlisted in Impact category

In uncertain times, let music bring us hope and joy.

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted in the Impact category at the Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) Awards 2021.

Supported by ABRSM, the prestigious accolade is awarded for ‘an outstanding initiative or organisation which set out to engage and have a lasting positive impact on the lives of people who may not otherwise experience classical music’.

News of the RPS nomination – revealed live on BBC Radio 3 earlier today – is especially powerful this winter, following the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic on thousands of aspiring young musicians and music leaders worldwide.

Despite this unprecedented challenge, Orchestras for All has harnessed the power of technology to keep its audience feeling positive and engaged, providing exciting music-making opportunities to its National Orchestra for All (NOFA) members, under-resourced schools, and teachers participating in its Modulo and Music Leadership Training (MLT) programmes.

Joelle Sogunro, OFA’s Trustee and alumni of OFA programmes, said: “I am so excited to be part of such an amazing charity! I know first-hand how awesome OFA is, so I am really happy that OFA is finally getting the recognition it deserves!”

Read more: Keyboard tutor Matt is running the London Marathon to raise money for Orchestras for All – and he needs your help >

Getting creative: school pupils at The Hathershaw College express themselves during a national Modulo Meet

Nick Thorne, OFA’s Executive Director, added: “At a time when the arts and music sectors were immobilised, Orchestras for All’s team, trustees, funders, partners and the young people we work with made a pact that the Covid-19 pandemic would not become yet another barrier to music-making.

­“I’m so proud that RPS has recognised the impact Orchestras for All has had on hundreds of young people over the past year, who already face significant barriers to participation. Thank you to each and every person who has played a part in our journey. We couldn’t have done it without you.”

For 98 per cent of members in NOFA – the only completely inclusive national youth orchestra in the country – cultural barriers and limited access to music-making have often prevented them from doing what they love the most.

Many also face health barriers, with 55 per cent previously unable to play in an orchestra due to autism, a physical disability, learning difference, or social, emotional or behavioural difficulties.

And despite only 1.6 per cent of Black, Asian and ethnically diverse musicians being members of British orchestras, 37 per cent of NOFA players come from underrepresented groups – with 54 per cent based in the lowest 3 IDACI multiple deprivation deciles.

Alongside increasing welfare intervention courses to support the emotional wellbeing of our young people, virtual activity for NOFA has included a ‘Stories of Silk’ recording, composed by NOFA and Lucy Hale, and the creation of ‘The Great Interstellar Orchestra’ – six minutes of mesmerising audio-visual art.

Find out more about National Orchestra for All >

Meanwhile, 22.6 per cent of Modulo participants are school pupils on free school meals – higher than the national average of 15 per cent – but continuing to offer our activity online has meant a total of 47 schools and 700 young people have been able to experience the joy of group music-making.

Finally, our online MLT continuing professional development courses have empowered music teachers by equipping them with the skills needed to run an ensemble – with over 159 courses downloaded in 2020-21 and 80 teachers signing up for four webinars, led by special guests such as conductor, Sian Edwards, and folk musician, Emily Askew.

Last year, the RPS Impact Award went to our trusted partner, City of London Sinfonia (CLS), for its Sound Young Minds programme – building confidence and self-esteem in young people living with mental health conditions through music-making and sharing.

Now, Orchestras for All joins two others in the Impact category: ENO Breathe and Including Me – Live Music Now.

Browse our Music Leadership Training courses > 

A registered charity, the Royal Philharmonic Society has been at the heart of music for over 200 years, supporting musicians and championing the vital role that music plays in all our lives.

The Society’s tradition of awarding excellence to musicians dates back to 1870 when it introduced its prestigious Gold Medal, which has been presented to the likes of Edward Elgar, Leonard Bernstein, Martha Argerich, Janet Baker, Daniel Barenboim, Jessye Norman and John Williams, among many others.

The winners of this year’s RPS Awards will be revealed in a celebratory presentation at Wigmore Hall in London, taking place on Monday 1 November 2021.

We would like to extend a special thanks to all of the inspiring young musicians who have engaged with our programmes, our youth board, funders, partners, individual donors, management team, freelance team, trustees and volunteers. Without you, this award nomination would not have been possible.

Together we have been able to make a positive impact during a global pandemic, using music as a tool to transform lives and send out a message of hope, voyage, adventure and limitless horizons to those who need it the most.

To fund a life-changing programme for young musicians, please donate today >