7 ways to support musicians in the LGBTQIA+ community

Take action and make a difference today.

At Orchestras for All (OFA), we fully support the LGBTQIA+ community and know that by doing so, it contributes towards creating a world that is more just, equitable and inclusive for all – regardless of people’s sexual orientation or gender identity.

We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with the same level of respect and dignity, free of discrimination and prejudice – and with many members of the LGBTQIA+ community often facing higher rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions, supporting them also means advocating for their health and wellbeing, boosting their confidence and promoting a sense of belonging.

Celebrating diversity enriches our society, bringing us together in new and meaningful ways. This has never been more apparent than it is in the music sector today, so here are seven ways you can support musicians in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Read more: ‘Before joining National Orchestra for All, I felt helpless – but now I’ve grown in confidence and independence,’ says autistic double bass player, Noah >

1. Listen to LGBTQIA+ music

One of the easiest ways you can support LGBTQIA+ musicians is to discover and listen to their work. Popular music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal have curated playlists featuring LGBTQIA+ artists, or you can stay up to date about new releases by following them on social media.

You could also attend LGBTQIA+ music festivals, listen to radio stations that play music exclusively from the LGBTQIA+ community – such as Pride Radio and Hits Radio Pride – or ask for personal recommendations from friends and community members.

2. Donate to LGBTQIA+-friendly organisations

National Orchestra for All Ambassador, Mars, supports the ensemble at their Nottingham rehearsals

In the UK, there are so many inspiring organisations that support the LGBTQIA+ community, including Stonewall, Galop, Mermaids, MindOut and the Human Rights Campaign.

We’re also proud to be LGBTQIA+-friendly here at Orchestras for All, welcoming all young musicians and staff to our diverse, inclusive and often life-changing musical programmes regardless of where they come from or how they choose to identify. Please support our work and donate what you can today:

3. Create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ musicians

A selection of fidget toys and crafts in the wellbeing room at a National Orchestra for All course

National Orchestra for All Wellbeing Tutor, Xia-Leon, said: “A great place to start is by asking everyone to include their pronouns when introducing themselves in group environments, and respect these and the language aligned with them at all times. Combined with non-gendered dress codes, this will help trans and gender non-conforming members of your organisations and communities to feel welcome and safe to present as their authentic selves.”

During NOFA courses, members and staff also have access to a “wellbeing room” where they can go to relax, recharge and take care of their physical and mental health in a calming space. Comfy seating, sensory toys, meditative tools, reading material and friendly faces from the wellbeing team are all effective ways of ensuring our young musicians – including those from the LGBTQIA+ community – always feel safe and supported when they need time out from rehearsals or performing.

4. Buy LGBTQIA+ music and attend shows

In today’s digital world, it can be all too easy for us to rely solely on streaming as a means of consuming music – and especially when so much of it is freely available. Purchasing music written by your favourite LGBTQIA+ artists or showing your support by attending their live events goes a long way in keeping up the momentum within the community.

As well as selling music via their websites, popular platform Bandcamp is often used by independent musicians to sell their work directly to fans, or you can team up with a friend on the weekend and seek out hidden gems in your local record store.

5. Share LGBTQIA+ music on social media

From TikTok and Twitter to Instagram and Snapchat, social media platforms are growing faster than ever – and let’s face it, they won’t be slowing down anytime soon. To increase the visibility of your favourite LGBTQIA+ musicians, help them reach a wider audience and connect with others who might enjoy their work, one of the quickest ways you can act is by sharing links to their work with your followers – and as regularly as you can!

If you’re a bit of a wordsmith, you might even want to consider writing reviews and tagging artists in your post using relevant hashtags, such as #LGBTQIA+Music or #QueerArtists.

6. Include LGBTQIA+ music in your choice of repertoire

If you’re a member of a youth orchestra or choir, why not make a suggestion to perform some of the music you’ve discovered live in concert? As part of OFA’s repertoire last season, National Orchestra for All performed ‘Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’ by composer Benjamin Britten, who was an openly gay man.

Orchestral covers of songs famously associated with the LGBTQIA+ community – including Queen’s 1984 rock hit, ‘I Want to Break Free’, Lady Gaga’s chart-topping tune, ‘Born This Way’, and Gloria Gaynor’s disco anthem, ‘I Will Survive’ – can also be a powerful way to celebrate and amplify people’s voices and experiences.

7. Advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights

National Orchestra for All members rehearse on stage at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Finally, take the time to educate yourself on LGBTQIA+ history and the rights movement. Use your voice to speak up whenever you hear homophobic or transphobic remarks and raise awareness about some of the key issues people face today.

Support politicians and policies that promote equality, engage with charities that are committed to implementing positive change and become an ally for your LGBTQIA+ friends, family and colleagues. By taking these steps, you can help to create a more inclusive and accepting society for LGBTQIA+ musicians.

Keen to support young LGBTQIA+ musicians from across the UK?
Please donate what you can to Orchestras for All:

‘Before joining National Orchestra for All, I felt helpless – but now I’ve grown in confidence and independence,’ says autistic double bass player, Noah

‘It’s all about the music.’

In 2017, autistic musician, Noah, joined National Orchestra for All (NOFA) after struggling to access inclusive music-making opportunities.

Fast forward to 2023 and the 19-year-old double bass player is now an ambassador for the inspiring ensemble, which celebrates all young musicians regardless of their differences or personal circumstances.

We caught up with Noah and his mum, Su, to learn more…

How has NOFA impacted your life?

Noah: “Before I joined NOFA, it wasn’t a great time. I had difficult personal circumstances and wasn’t in school because of bullying and unmet support needs for my autism. I was lonely and had no-one to talk to. My future was very uncertain and I felt helpless.

“Then I met Ed and Charlotte (fellow double bass players) through NOFA who gave me more confidence in my bass playing. Ed encouraged me to do grades and I’m now working on Grade Six! I found other people I could talk to and share my love of music with. It really helped seeing different campus life, accommodation and more, and I am now planning to go to uni.

“My first concert in Leeds Arena was great. I got to play music and be part of a bigger thing. Going to Leeds was my first experience of being away from home – I have enjoyed going to different places. It has really helped my bass playing, I’ve grown in confidence and independence and I learnt to deal with challenges.”

Su: “The two-hour round trip to Leeds every week was a commitment but it really developed Noah’s confidence travelling on the train – a key life skill that didn’t come naturally to him. Throughout his time with NOFA, Noah has practised many vital skills in a safe and supportive environment outside of his special school. I can’t stress enough how much this helped his development and wellbeing.”

Read more: BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 finalist Ralph Porrett shares a virtual tea break with Orchestras for All >

Pictured: Noah (top right) plays double bass at National Orchestra for All’s summer concert in 2022.

What made you choose NOFA over another orchestra or music group? 

Noah: “I didn’t feel able to access anything else. I like having a week-long programme, spending so much time practising music and getting better. I felt included at NOFA – it doesn’t matter where you are from or what you are like, it’s all about the music rather than where you live or go to school.”

Su: “As a parent I have watched Noah struggle and hover on the edge of groups, never really being able to join in. He was adamant that he needed me to come with him to his first NOFA course. Here I was able to see him relax and join in and gradually, I was able to take a step back knowing he was in safe hands and supported by such a fantastic team. 

“As Noah gained in confidence to attend more independently, we were given the gift of respite care; something that used to be provided by local authorities but is almost non-existent now. For all the families of disabled members, NOFA provides a much-needed and appreciated service by default!

Please help us make a difference and donate to National Orchestra for All >

Any standout moments from NOFA 2021-2022?

Noah: “I enjoyed playing a solo; I did not have the confidence to do this when I started! And playing the music – my favourite pieces were Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra and Romanian folk song, ‘Spoitoresa’.”

Su: “The whole course was just one brilliant thing after another; I saw Noah talking to other musicians and interacting. On the first evening, Noah also ventured into the common room by himself and then put himself to bed – this may seem trivial but these were major achievements. He had become so withdrawn and struggled so much, so NOFA has given him much more than the chance to perform wonderful music.

“NOFA’s recital evening also blew me away and seeing Noah perform made me cry! I couldn’t see how things could get any better but they did. I didn’t realise that Leeds Arena really is a vast arena. I just couldn’t believe what I saw and experienced. Thank you so, so much – OFA really has changed Noah’s life and our family are extremely grateful for everything.”

Did you learn anything in particular during your NOFA experience that will help you in future? 

Noah: “Confidence. Now I feel able to try new things and talk to people, like I did when I joined the Youth Board. Independence. When I first started, I needed my mum to come with me but now feel confident going away with NOFA on my own and being able to talk to people about music as well as other things including being able to ask for help. Finally, I’ve also improved my musical knowledge and understanding and would have the confidence to join another music group or orchestra as an adult!”

Read Orchestras for All’s latest impact report >

Su: “Noah also joined in with icebreakers, spoke in front of everyone at the teatime sessions and even played a solo. Noah has made huge progress socially, emotionally and musically. Music gives him all of these things and it was OFA that allowed him to take the first step to see the potential of where music could take him in life. Even before Noah got a place at a special school, his friends and family had all noticed a huge difference in him after his time with NOFA. He stood taller and spoke to people about the concert and course.

“I can’t even begin to list all the times staff have taken the time to encourage and support Noah. They are all so skilled, professional and kind, I don’t think they know the huge difference they are making – OFA’s generous nature makes everything flow so naturally. Members are appreciated for who they are and what they contribute. The sum of the parts of the orchestra is definitely much greater than all the individuals.”

Please support other young musicians like Noah and donate today >

BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 finalist Ralph Porrett shares a virtual tea break with Orchestras for All

The guitar virtuoso will be supporting young musicians in this year’s Modulo Programme, so we caught up with him to find out more...

Inspiring guitarist, vocalist, composer and improviser, Ralph Porrett, has been making waves on the music scene following his stellar live performance in the BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 final last November.

Taking place at London’s prestigious Queen Elizabeth Hall, Ralph’s captivating show included an original suite of music, Ode to Arnheim, which he had written especially for house band, Nikki Yeoh’s Infinitum, who accompanied him throughout.

The 23-year-old Guildhall graduate has also collaborated and toured with the likes of saxophonist and MOBO Award winner, YolanDa Brown, pop singer-songwriter, Tom Rosenthal, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, among many others, and is due to release his highly-anticipated collection of EPs throughout 2023.

When he’s not busy pursuing his own passion for music, Ralph dedicates his time as a guitar tutor and arranger to support participants of Orchestras for All’s Modulo Programme, which kickstarts a vibrant culture of orchestral music-making in maintained schools across the UK and brings young musicians together to perform as one large-scale ensemble.

During a recent interview (watch video above), Ralph told us: “I’m really excited to be involved with Modulo again this year, with our dates taking place in March and July. I’ve been looking at the guitar parts already and re-orchestrating some of them to make them as fun, guitar-friendly and accessible as possible for all levels and abilities.”

Read more: OFA celebrates positive change for young musicians in latest impact report >

Pictured: Guitarist Ralph Porrett performs live at the BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 final (BBC)

Ralph continued: “Guitar isn’t a traditional orchestral instrument – but participants of Modulo can expect to be playing some really fun music that does fit in to an orchestral ensemble. I think they’ll have a great time collaborating and music-making with some classical instruments that guitarists might not usually have the opportunity to play with.”

Learn more about the Modulo Programme >

Before teaming up with students from other schools at OFA’s Modulo Meets, individual Modulos – a group of up to 15 young people, aged 11-18 – are formed, which are totally inclusive and welcome players regardless of their musical ability, previous experience or chosen instrument, in a bid to break down barriers to music-making.

A recent Modulo participant said: “I feel more confident after this experience because I’ve played in front of a lot of people, so now I feel like I can do anything!”

Another commented: “Go to Modulo if you want to learn how to play a new instrument – but even if you already play one, it’ll still help you to build on your skills.”

All about that bass: Ralph supports a Modulo guitar sectional at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire

Sharing top tips for new Modulo participants, Ralph said: “Collaborate with like-minded individuals in your section and make new friends. You’ll also play diverse repertoire at Modulo, which can present stylistic challenges and expose you to music that you might not necessarily listen to but have the opportunity to play.

“And finally, at the end of a Modulo day you’ll get to perform your work – that’s so important because you can be in your bedroom all day long practising your music to your heart’s content but actually, music is about giving and expressing these things that we’re feeling with others.”

Watch Modulo musicians in action at the Royal Northern College of Music >

Speaking out about the importance of diversity and inclusion, Ralph added: “When you have a network of people from different backgrounds, how amazing that can be. They might have different education, be different ages and listen to different music at home but when you throw them all in a room together, that’s when special things happen and the most original music-making can take place.

“The arts industries are usually a reflection of what’s happening culturally and art should drive the ideas and thoughts of wider society. It’s important that musical institutions think really seriously about diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility – and that’s why it’s so brilliant that children can get involved with Orchestras for All because that’s their mission.”

To support young musicians on our Modulo programme, please donate today >

Orchestras for All celebrates positive change for young musicians across the UK in latest impact report

“Seeing how energised our young musicians were while making music together again was a perfect reminder of why this charity exists.”

Orchestras for All (OFA) has released its impact report for 2021-22 as the charity continues its life-changing work in breaking down barriers to music education for young people in the UK.

From taking home the award for ‘Outstanding Musical Initiative’ at the UK-wide Music and Drama Education Awards 2022, to raising £17,000 for its programmes through a heartwarming digital campaign, Music Changes Lives, there’s certainly been much to celebrate.

OFA’s trustee and National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alumna, Joelle, commented: “It’s been yet another eventful year, full of exciting activities, productive meetings and incredible achievements as well as a time of reflection. After coming out of lockdown, we were finally able to return to in-person events, reuniting the young people we work with and inspiring even more music leaders.

“Seeing how energised our young musicians were while making music together again after a long two years of the pandemic was a perfect reminder of why this charity exists and is so needed. Team discussions constantly revolve around ‘what is best for young people’ and ‘what we can do better for them’.”

Read more: Season’s greetings: 12 days of Orchestras for All memories >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All (NOFA) musicians perform live in Nottingham in summer 2022

Alongside growing its team to become truly national, OFA held two live webinars for 91 participants in 2022 as part of its Music Leadership Training programme. Meanwhile, six online events and nine live events took place for its NOFA and Modulo programmes, welcoming 35 Modulo schools and 82 NOFA members.

Learn more about OFA’s three programmes >

With youth leadership at the forefront of OFA’s work, the Youth Board and team of Young Leaders were involved in key decision-making throughout the year, while five inspiring NOFA alumni were engaged to join the team as ambassadors – playing a crucial role in the delivery of OFA’s activity, from logistical to marketing.

Joelle said: “Despite having so much to feel proud of, OFA remains humble and self-critical. This is what drives the team forward and allows them to achieve so much. That’s why over the past year, the charity has introduced dedicated safe spaces and increased the number of wellbeing staff at its events as well as creating ‘pen profiles’ for all young musicians and staff, which highlight an individual’s specific needs to ensure they receive the right level of support.”

She continued: “OFA is an amazing charity that helped us tremendously throughout our adolescence and makes us proud now as adults. Although we’ve reached our final few months as Chairs of the Youth Board, we couldn’t feel more secure in passing the torch on to Chloe Morgan – our newly-recruited Trustee and National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alumna.”

With plans for 2023 already in full swing, OFA is now approaching its first full season of face-to-face musical activity since 2018-19, which will be complemented by online meetings and briefings and a strengthened wellbeing offer to ensure all young people, staff and trustees are fully supported throughout.

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, the team would like to thank all those who were part of the charity’s journey in 2021-22 and look forward to welcoming the next cohort of young musicians and music leaders to its programmes this year.

See OFA’s 2021-22 impact report >

Season’s greetings: 12 days of Orchestras for All memories

From award wins to powerful live concerts, that’s a wrap on 2022…

What a memorable year it has been! We have so much to celebrate and be grateful for here at Orchestras for All (OFA) and would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who were part of our journey in 2022.

Without the ongoing support of our incredible partners, funders, supporters, tutors, trustees, volunteers, alumni, ambassadors, and of course, our brilliant Youth Board, OFA’s life-changing programmes for young people would not be possible.

OFA’s young trustees, Beth and Joelle, told us: “It’s been yet another eventful year, full of exciting activities, productive meetings and incredible achievements as well as a time for reflection. Seeing how energised our young musicians were while making music together again after a long two years of the pandemic was a perfect reminder of why this charity exists and is so needed.”

We can’t wait to meet and get started with our new cohort of National Orchestra for All and Modulo musicians very soon.

For now though, it’s time to rest up and recharge but to mark the festive period, we’ll leave you with 12 OFA memories from 2022 – and 2023, we’re ready for you! 

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1. The excitement of returning to live activity and reconnecting with our musical friends

2. Winning the award for ‘Outstanding Musical Initiative’ at the Music & Drama Education Awards 2022 – OFA’s first ever award

3. We met with Modulo schools and collaborated with diverse students and music leaders from all across the country, playing an eclectic programme of repertoire

4. Welcoming barrier-smashing new members of the team, Youth Board and trustees – including National Orchestra for All (NOFA) member, Chloe!

5. NOFA’s famed recital evenings – we laughed, we cried and most importantly, we went away feeling inspired by the young people we work with

6. Our powerful summer concert with NOFA, complete with body percussion, a Britten masterpiece and spoken word produced in collaboration with poet, Ben Macpherson

7. Raising over £18,000 from our winter fundraiser, Musical Chairs 2022, hosted by NOFA members Tashan, Nell and Chloe

8. Being constantly blown away by how incredible our five Ambassadors were – for example, Kate and Joe’s epic presentation on behalf of OFA at NYMAZ and Harrison Parrott’s Symposium

9. Collaborating with experts from across the music and education sectors during our thought-provoking Music Leadership Training webinars

10. Sharing a virtual tea break with esteemed conductor and Artistic Director at El Sistema Greece, José Ángel Salazar-Marin, who led the way at NOFA’s summer concert

11. Introducing pen profiles for all the young people and staff that we work with to ensure they receive the right level of support and their wellbeing remains a top priority

12. And finally, celebrating becoming a National Portfolio Organisation, helping us support even more young musicians nationwide who need it the most – a fantastic way to end the year!

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A winter-ful design

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank National Orchestra for All violinist, Patience, for designing this colourful greetings card for OFA! We’re sure you’ll all agree that her musical snowman looks super cool.

Have a restful, music-filled festive break, everyone!

Keen to support young musicians through our programmes? Please donate today >

Over £18,000 raised for aspiring young musicians after members of the public perform together for the first time

“It was the best day of my year, if not years!”

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to share that its winter fundraiser, Musical Chairs 2022, has raised £18,101.20 for young people engaged in its life-changing programmes, who would otherwise struggle to access musical opportunities due to the daily barriers they face.

Hosted last month at Westminster School, London, the inclusive event welcomed a diverse cohort of all ages, skillsets and backgrounds, who played together as an orchestra for the very first time – with many also picking up a new instrument for the first time. They were led by OFA’s Artistic Director and conductor, Emma Oliver-Trend, and supported by a friendly team of orchestral tutors, alumni and National Orchestra for All members – all kindly volunteering their time on the day.

After spending the morning rehearsing an eclectic programme of repertoire – including ‘Allegro’, taken from Alice Mary Smith’s Symphony in A minor, and Romanian folk tune, ‘Spoitoresa’ – attendees performed together live in concert for an audience at the school.

Ten-year-old participant, Mahi, said: “My piano teacher told me about Musical Chairs. I thought it sounded fun and it was for a good cause, so I played the flute. I enjoyed meeting new people and the challenge of making new pieces sound perfect in one day. Everyone should have the chance to do this because you can express yourself musically.”

Her father, Ketan, also joined the ensemble. He told us: “I signed up Mahi and was gratified to be asked to join the percussion section when we showed up – it was touching that the volunteers cheerily thought I could contribute too, so I was on the tambourine and congas (having never played them before!).”

Read more: Vulnerable young musicians supported nationwide as Orchestras for All secures new Arts Council England funding >

Pictured: Ten-year-old participant, Mahi, plays the flute with the Musical Chairs 2022 orchestra

Ketan continued: “I enjoyed discovering a new musical ability, being encouraged to dive in without thinking too much and producing a workable sound despite having no experience whatsoever. Nervousness evaporated quickly with tutor Andre’s strong support, teaching and confidence that we could do it without fuss. I was quite happy to tell anyone who’d listen at the end of the concert that it was the best day of my year, if not years! The volunteers were kind and helpful and Emma was encouraging throughout.”

As part of the fundraising concert, audience members also heard first-hand accounts from those who have benefitted from OFA’s work – including young trustee, Chloe Morgan, National Orchestra for All (NOFA) trumpeter, Tashan, and fellow NOFA trumpeter, Cameron, who gave a heartfelt speech alongside his mother, Polly.

Read more: Meet Orchestras for All’s barrier-smashing new trustees! >

Ketan said: “Without music and music-making, we are lost and really cannot thrive in any other parts of our lives. OFA‘s mission to break down barriers for young people is essential for opening doors in music and other areas of their potential. During the concert, it was touching to hear some of them tell the audience how OFA has transformed their lives. Young people are among the wisest people I come across, since they are not completely conditioned as yet to see life as a glass half empty – their clarity and honesty is compelling.

“I am mystified why being what you are limits your possibilities due to others’ prejudices – and that is why OFA’s work on diversity, inclusion and youth voice is essential to removing barriers. The barriers may never be completely removed but the music-making must go on!”

To the beat: Orchestras for All’s percussion tutor, Andre (left) and Musical Chairs participant, Ketan (right)

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank Harriet’s Trust for match funding the event, our wonderful participants, orchestral tutors, alumni, volunteers, funders, individual donors and Westminster School for making Musical Chairs 2022 possible. Scroll down for a few of the highlights!

If you would like to support OFA’s life-changing work for aspiring young musicians across the UK, please donate what you can today >

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Musical Chairs 2022 in pictures

Orchestras for All Trustee and cellist, Joelle

Question time from the strings during rehearsals

Fluttering flautists

Music can be enjoyed by everyone

From guitars to melodicas, all instruments are welcome in our inclusive ensemble

It’s all smiles from OFA trustees and Musical Chairs participants, Lucinda (middle) and Rosie (right)

Orchestras for All’s Artistic Director and conductor, Emma, leads the way

Modulo Programme Manager, Sam (middle) and OFA’s Executive Director, Nick (right) join the strings

Inspiring National Orchestra for All flautist, Ricardo, supports the woodwind section

The full ensemble

Impromptu percussionist, Ketan, couldn’t wait to get stuck in!

OFA’s Founding Director, Marianna

Going strong on the xylophone

Booming brass

Collection buckets at the ready for our winter fundraiser!

Final rehearsal before the afternoon concert

A witty host: National Orchestra for All trumpeter, Tashan, introduces the live show

Powerful words were shared by young musicians as part of the event

A moving speech from National Orchestra for All trumpeter, Cameron, and his mum, Polly

Our diverse cohort included complete beginners to professionals with years of experience

Mahi and OFA volunteer, Laura, put their busy day of rehearsals to the test – and did an excellent job!

National Orchestra for All’s keyboard tutor, Matt, plays along to ‘Spoitoresa’ on the melodica

Audience members enjoy a quick video starring young musicians from the Modulo Programme

Musical Chairs participant and OFA Trustee, Philip Raperport, takes a moment to enjoy the show

Time for some audience participation – body percussion with orchestral tutor, Andre!

One of OFA’s young trustees, Chloe, shares what Orchestras for All means to her

A round of applause from Artistic Director, Emma

Participants congratulate each other after a brilliant live performance

Pictured (middle): Orchestras for All’s strings tutor, Lawrence

National Orchestra for All pals, Ricardo and Tashan

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Musical Chairs 2022 – we hope to see you again soon!

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‘Tis the season to be jolly: meet Orchestras for All’s barrier-smashing new trustees!

From fundraising experts and young musicians to marketing-savvy professionals, here we introduce the latest additions to our team…

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce that its Board of Trustees has welcomed six inspiring new members in a bid to elevate its practice and take the charity to new heights.

The decision comes as OFA continues to strive towards its bold vision: a country where all young people have access to the benefits of orchestral music-making regardless of the daily challenges they might be facing.

According to the Young Trustees Movement, less than 3 per cent of charity trustees are aged 30 and under despite young people often being an integral part of their work, while one in 12 trustees are named either John or David – highlighting the growing need for board diversity across the sector.

With this in mind, OFA is proud to share that its new trustees include Belfast-based musician, Chloe Morgan – an alumna of its inclusive, non-auditioned youth orchestra, National Orchestra for All (NOFA), who participated in three seasons of the programme and also supported the charity as a dedicated Young Leader, Youth Board member and co-host of OFA’s online fundraising launch event last winter.

This means that a quarter of OFA’s Board of 12 Trustees are currently aged 23 and under or alumni of its programmes. Chloe said: “Joining OFA back in 2018, I had no idea that I would wind up a trustee but I always wanted to give back to the organisation that led me down the path to here. From a young age, I’ve had a passion for politics and community work (and of course music) but it was joining OFA that made me realise the gap that existed for accessible music-making – and the need to fill that gap.”

Read more: ‘A more equal world is a safer place for everyone,’ says visually impaired composer, Xia-Leon >

Chloe continued: “Having benefitted so much from music and NOFA, I’m excited to help OFA evolve and I’ve already been involved in discussions about exciting new things. Learning from the OFA team and Board of Trustees is a big thing for me – they have so much experience in so many fields and I’m sure I’ll be all the wiser from working with them. Most importantly, I’m ready for OFA to achieve what the Youth Board likes to call “world domination!”.

Learn more about Orchestras for All’s young musicians >

Joining Chloe on the Board is senior leader in the international development sector, Rosie Parkyn, who runs a radio station for young people at Riverside Studios, and Rachael Adediran, who takes over from former trustee, Emily Sayers, and has kickstarted a culture of music-making for hundreds of young people during her time as Associate Assistant Principal at Skinners’ Academy in Hackney, London.

Rosie said: “I believe everyone should have the opportunity to access and make music as much as they wish. It is always life-enhancing and can be transformational. I am frustrated that these opportunities are still not available to all young people – they should not be a luxury. This is why I support the fantastic work of Orchestras for All. I am immensely proud to be a Trustee and hope that my professional experience in non-profit leadership will help this organisation realise its immense potential.”

Rachael added: “I first knew music was going to feature in my life aged seven when I passed the ‘test’ to have flute lessons at school and, in the same year, joined the Steel Band – no test necessary! These two steps started me on a lifelong journey of music-making and I have actively worked to remove barriers to participation for young people. OFA also does fantastic, truly inclusive work in removing those barriers, so I'm really excited to be part of its journey as a Trustee and support the team who drive it forward!”

Pictured (clockwise): New Orchestras for All trustees Rachael Adediran, Chloe Morgan, Philip Raperport, Rosie Parkyn, Dominic Parker and Lucinda Coulthard

Working alongside Rosie and Rachael is Director of BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Dominic Parker, whose background includes fundraising and marketing for Southbank Centre, London Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, as well as freelance arts fundraiser and former Head of Development at Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Lucinda Coulthard, and Commissioning Executive for BBC Sounds and Radio 3, Philip Raperport.

Dominic said: “OFA is doing incredible work and is at a pivotal point in its development, having just joined the Arts Council’s NPO portfolio. I’m very happy to be joining the Board of Trustees and to lend my support and experience as this inspirational company continues to make music with hundreds of young people each year.” 

Lucinda commented: “I can’t remember when music wasn’t part of my life. Learning the recorder with my classmates during Year one at Primary School was possibly the first time I felt genuinely good at something – and now I know how much I benefitted from that newfound confidence. I firmly believe that every young person should be able to achieve their potential – and there is plenty of evidence to prove how much performing music in ensembles can help with so many important life skills. I’m so pleased to be a Trustee of OFA and I look forward to playing my part in its future.”

Watch National Orchestra for All’s epic summer concert >

Philip added: “The role of collective music-making in stimulating creativity, developing social skills and supporting wellbeing is hugely undervalued, and OFA’s mission to support and empower young people through access to instruments and playing music together has never been more important. As a Board Trustee, I hope I can play a small part in supporting the charity’s big ambitions. I’m most excited about working with and learning from the Youth Board and other young trustees. OFA is unique in the way it prioritises and champions young voices, not only through its programmes but within the charity itself.”

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, huge congratulations to each of our new trustees and a warm welcome to the team!

Please support OFA’s life-changing programmes and donate today >

‘A more equal world is a safer place for everyone,’ says visually impaired composer, Xia-Leon

‘It’s rare to find a space where people’s differences are celebrated – and yet I have found that Orchestras for All is such a space.’

According to disability equality charity, Scope, there are currently 14.6 million disabled people living in the UK. That’s 22 per cent of the total population, with 9 per cent being young people – and yet, one in three disabled people feel that disability prejudice exists.

At Orchestras for All however, we fully embrace equity, diversity and inclusion. This means celebrating each and every one of the young musicians or staff members that we work with regardless of the daily challenges they might be facing.

Ahead of International Day of People with Disabilities on 3 December 2022, we caught up with one of our Wellbeing Tutors, Xia, to find out more about their firsthand experience of living with a disability and why raising awareness of disability is vital in today’s world.

Please introduce yourself and tell us a little about what you do.

Hello, I’m Xia-Leon. I’m from Cambridge, non-binary (trans-neutral) and my pronouns are they/them. I like to compose music that responds to the beauty and fragility of the living Earth, reflecting on issues of spirituality and identity. I’m also autistic and have been blind for almost all my life. In future I hope to train as a therapist, exploring how listening, creative practice and embodiment could form part of healing processes.

What does music mean to you?

Music has played diverse roles in my life. At times, it’s been a safe place that I could retreat to, away from the clamour of the world and complex social dynamics of my peers. It’s also been a vessel for social connection – a space where I could meet others who share this part of my identity. Most people I tend to engage with are either musicians, composers or music creators.

Read more: Vulnerable young musicians supported nationwide as Orchestras for All secures new Arts Council England funding >

Pictured: Xia-Leon (left) enjoys a ‘rise and shine’ wellbeing activity at NOFA’s summer course in Nottingham

One of my earliest memories is of my dad handing me stones to throw into the ocean. I felt so much joy and fascination at the sounds that emerged from the different shapes, weights and sizes of stones as they hit the water. Although it’s not strictly ‘musical,’ it was undoubtedly part of the early explorations of sound that ultimately birthed my later passion.

In terms of my listening preferences, I love Morton Feldman’s late music as well as the jagged beauty of Pauline Oliveros’ accordion improvisations. Laurie Spiegel’s evolving soundworlds and Salvatore Sciarrino’s luminous, fragile timbres fascinate me and have influenced my own work. I also love the harmonies of traditional Bulgarian vocal music, the lyrics and music of Scottish folk singer, Karine Polwart, and I was recently introduced to Malian artist, Oumou Sangare, whose beautiful and versatile work I look forward to exploring further.

How did you first find out about Orchestras for All (OFA) and what’s been your involvement with the charity so far?

After completing a Masters, I was looking for positions that would prepare me for my future training as a therapist and allow me to hone my existing skills. I came across the opening to work with OFA as a Wellbeing Tutor and the role seemed perfect: I would be supporting people from a huge range of backgrounds in a musical setting. I was successful with my application and attended my first National Orchestra for All (NOFA) course in July. It was a privilege to work alongside my fantastic colleagues to support a group of amazing young people, seeing the brilliant culmination of their work together over those four days.

Watch NOFA’s summer concert >

On 3 December 2022, OFA and many others worldwide will be celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Could you tell us why raising awareness of disability is so important and what it means for you?

As someone who interacts with the world free from ‘visual dependence’, I am very lucky to have grown up in a culture where perceptions of accessibility have come a long way. I had tactile and Braille resources throughout my education and in the UK, it’s not unusual to see someone out walking with a white cane. Most people I know make me feel that blindness is only one aspect of who I am – one node in our connection to be acknowledged and supported, which infuses the relationship in multiple ways.

‘We must move away from the paradigm of ‘inclusivity’ to one that strives towards equality,’ urges Xia-Leon

We have a long way to go before we reach complete equality in the world. It would mean radically reassessing what we value, both individually and collectively, and reshaping our existing frameworks to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard, so they can contribute fully and meaningfully. We need to recognise that change is needed, with the fierce yet compassionate desire to come together and make it happen. All too often, raising awareness is framed as an end point. I think it’s far from that but it’s a crucial first step.

Spending a lifetime moving through a world that simply isn’t made for you is exhausting – especially when articulating who you are and your needs isn’t something many of us have been taught to do. With the help of allies, I hope that those of us who do have the resources to raise awareness can offer others the tools to join us and together, we can learn to use them. An equal world is a safer, happier place for everyone.

Could you tell us about some of the barriers visually impaired people face in music?

During a rehearsal I played in as a 13-year old, I remember a conductor saying: ‘You have to look at me. Your ears are not enough.’ This is a common barrier I’ve encountered throughout my musical training and despite the stereotype of blind people as exceptionally gifted musicians, often there is still a perception in this ocular-centric society that it’s not possible to engage in musical practice without the visual sense.

Other barriers are much simpler and easier for me to accept as ‘just one of those things’. Although I no longer sing in choirs or play instruments, there was very little music available in Braille notation when these were still integral parts of my life, so I learned almost everything by ear. Even when I did have access to Braille scores, I had to memorise them, since I couldn’t read the music with my fingers and play at the same time.

NOFA’s Wellbeing Tutor, Xia, attends a sectional rehearsal with diverse young musicians from across the UK

As a composer, my music has also been impacted by only being able to read up to two lines of music at once (by reading one line with each hand), rather than having an overview of the page as sighted music readers do. It means my musical structures – the shape of the path a particular piece traces through time – are often much simpler than those of my peers. However, the intimate relationship I form with my work by processing it through touch is a dimension many stave-notation users are missing.

Why do you feel it’s important for an inclusive charity like OFA to exist?

It’s rare to find a space where people’s differences are celebrated rather than viewed as tragedies or challenges to overcome – and yet, I have found through personal experience that OFA is such a space. During my time with NOFA, I taught Braille as part of a wellbeing challenge and connected with neurodivergent members who previously, may not have had many role models they could relate to like their neurotypical peers. At OFA, I felt the very aspects of my lived experience were not a burden; they became an entry point for meaningful contribution to the charity’s work, which is empowering and invaluable.

Read more: 13 ways you can be kind to others in an inclusive youth orchestra >

How can arts organisations better support young musicians and staff members with disabilities?

Arrange for music to be transcribed into Braille in advance, and be sensitive to who is in the room when giving instructions. The most important thing for me is to move away from a paradigm of ‘inclusivity’ to one that strives towards equality. ‘Inclusivity’ means allowing people into existing frameworks, often created by those in positions of power, and giving them the tools to be there without changing the frameworks themselves.

National Orchestra for All musicians, orchestral tutors and wellbeing tutors team up for group activities

But you could go further: maybe follow Daniel Barenboim’s example and conduct from memory, if this is open to you, and lead a rehearsal where everyone has their eyes closed or faces away from you. Explain on your public platforms that these are the approaches you take, so that no member is singled out. Connected with this, ask all members, disabled and non-disabled, to share their needs with you, for example through OFA’s ‘PEN profiles’ (as written in the young person’s own words). This will help to convey that you are serious allowing these to shape your organisation alongside each of your members’ strengths.

If you could give three top tips to disabled young people who are considering starting out on their musical journey, what would they be?

1. Listen as widely and as deeply as you can, discover what you love and spend time with like-minded people or communities that value you and make you feel excited about music-making.

2. There may be times when things get tough. Know you’re not alone. These troughs or valleys don’t make you any less of a musician. Stay connected with that initial spark: go back to that person if you can, listen back to that piece, relive that experience if it’s possible and safe to do so. Keep listening and nourishing your creative fire in any other ways that have meaning for you. It might take some time to reignite but it will happen, even if your musical practice changes radically in the meantime.

3. Stay connected. Go back to that person, replay that piece or relive that experience. Keep listening and nourish your creative fire in a way that has meaning for you.

Finally, please complete the following sentence. Orchestras for All is…

…a vibrant, invaluable community shaped by the diversity of its members’ strengths and needs, which dissolves the barriers that so many young people face and welcomes their skills and passion into an industry that is enriched and enlivened by those gifts.

Please support our life-changing musical programmes and donate today >

Join our live webinar for music leaders this November and create unity in your mixed-ability ensemble

The virtual event aims to boost creativity and inclusivity in ensembles at a time when many of the nation’s music leaders are under-resourced.

Are you keen to take your youth orchestra to the next level? If so, join us later this month as Orchestras for All (OFA) hosts the fourth live webinar in its Music Leadership Training series.

Titled Mixed-Ability Ensembles: Finding Unity, the one-hour session is scheduled to take place via Zoom at 16:00 GMT on Wednesday 30 November 2022 and will be led by the charity’s Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend.

Emma said: “What runs through your head when someone says ‘mixed-ability ensembles’ – one big compromise? A musical mishmash? At OFA, we have a ‘three-ingredient recipe’ for working with a mixed-ability ensemble: carefully created music parts, a variety of notation and music learning options as well as rehearsal techniques that create unity in the group – the focus of this session.

“Also known as NOFA, our National Orchestra for All is a 100-piece mixed-ability orchestra. We have Grade Eight-ers sitting next to complete beginners and we’ve worked this way for over 11 years – living proof that mixed-ability ensembles can be satisfying both musically and socially.”

Read more: Vulnerable young musicians supported nationwide as Orchestras for All secures new Arts Council England funding >

Pictured: Emma Oliver-Trend leads the way during a Modulo rehearsal at Royal Northern College of Music

While the webinar is free to attend, participants are invited to donate what they can to help OFA continue its life-changing work in breaking down barriers to group music-making for young people, which has become ever more vital at a time when hundreds of schools, music hubs and arts organisations are currently struggling across the country owing to lack of funding.

Learn more about Music Leadership Training >

Following the success of Emma’s last webinar, which explored how to redefine rehearsals and included a live Q&A, the forthcoming session will surely be a thought-provoking afternoon for both attendees and the Cornwall-based musician – a keen classical and folk violinist, whose previous roles have included Principal Guest Conductor of the Harlow Symphony Orchestra and Founder Director of the Ware Community Orchestra.

Emma has also produced several operas and arts programmes for Welsh National Opera and Dartington Arts, and collaborated with Belgian singer, Nele Van Den Broeck, to pen the stage musical ‘How to fail at being perfect’ – a Young Lyric Production performed at the Lyric Hammersmith in August 2017 and Latitude Festival 2018.

“We value equality of opportunity, removing hierarchy and accessibility to rehearsals,” says Emma

Meanwhile, Emma’s current role as Artistic Director at Orchestras for All includes orchestral conducting, creating large-scale inclusive arrangements, leading conducting training for music leaders and contributing towards the artistic programme of the charity.

Speaking about Mixed-Ability Ensembles: Finding Unity, she said: “This session aims to share our approach, practical ideas and challenges and will invite you to share yours! Our starting point is to invest in a strong community – a culture of social and musical equality that is essential to making a great orchestra.

“We also think it is vital to acknowledge and activate the wide range of musical abilities that young musicians bring. We value equality of opportunity, removing hierarchy and accessibility to rehearsals through inclusive learning.”

Mixed-Ability Ensembles: Finding Unity comes after music education consultant, Professor Nate Holder, and music producer, Jack McNeill, also delivered live webinars this year as part of OFA’s Music Leadership Training series.

Vulnerable young musicians supported nationwide as Orchestras for All secures new Arts Council England funding

The funds will help Orchestras for All break down significant barriers to music-making for thousands of aspiring young musicians in the UK.

Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce that it has secured vital new funding from Arts Council England (ACE) to assist the charity in continuing its life-changing work.

Also known as the National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) Transfer Programme, the generous funding supports arts organisations to ‘deliver creative and cultural activity which delivers against the Outcomes in Let’s Create, Arts Council England’s Strategy (2020-30)’.

The news comes as ACE shares its plans to invest £446 million per annum in 990 organisations (including 276 new organisations of all shapes and sizes) over the next three years, following 1,700 applications to the programme – enabling even more people to enjoy the comfort, distraction and everyday wonders afforded to local communities through creativity and culture during tough economic times and wherever they are.

As part of the programme, successful organisations must be open to moving their registered office out of London to another UK-based location by October 2024 – this will present exciting new opportunities for OFA, which has fully embraced a remote/hybrid working pattern following the devastating impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the music education sector.

Benefits of the transfer might include strengthening the charity’s national team, effective new ways of staying connected, in-person meetings in different cities, exploring deeper partnerships with music venues and regions as well as allowing team members to collaborate in a way that works best for them, taking into account accessibility, flexibility and wellbeing.

National Orchestra for All Ambassador and young carer, Isaac, said: “This is fantastic news. I’m so glad that OFA’s got the funding to improve the lives of young people – just like they did for me. Their commitment for making a space where young people can thrive both musically and socially is unique.”

Read more: Musical Chairs 2022: experience the magic of performing with a live symphony orchestra at this epic one-day fundraiser >

Pictured: Young musicians from schools across the UK gather for OFA’s Modulo Programme at the RNCM

Youth Board member, Mars, added: “A big thank you to Arts Council England; NOFA has been something I’ve looked forward to year after year and thanks to this grant, I know NOFA will be able to inspire and empower a new generation of musicians.”

Over the past decade, OFA has strived to become fully national, broadening and diversifying its core team while also recruiting young musicians, maintained schools, music leaders and volunteers from across the country for its three powerful programmes.

Its inclusive, non-auditioned National Orchestra for All (NOFA) brings together 100 young musicians from across the UK who would otherwise be unable to access musical opportunities – whether that’s due to a physical disability, mental health condition, economic deprivation or rural isolation – while the charity’s Modulo and Music Leadership Training programmes equip under-resourced music leaders with the vital tools and support they need to run their own inclusive ensembles in schools and local communities.

Discover OFA’s programmes >

Former National Orchestra for All trumpeter, Kate, said: “It’s brilliant to hear that we’ve been chosen for ACE’s funding. It makes a massive difference to how we can deliver and create our programmes to those who need it most. It’s also amazing to see our wee organisation get recognised for the tireless work that we do – our young people are craicer!”

NOFA Ambassador and woodwind player, Joe, commented: “OFA will do so much with that amazing money. The Arts Council proves yet again that there will always be room for the creative industry and I’m so glad that we can go forward as part of that movement.”

OFA’s Executive Director, Nick Thorne, added: “This is a milestone moment for Orchestras for All; thank you to Arts Council England for believing in our vision to break down barriers to give all young people the life-changing experience of making music together. Thank you to every single person that has supported us on our journey so far, but special mention from me to the young people we work with who inspire me each day through their passion, energy and barrier-smashing enthusiasm towards our work.

“While we take this moment to celebrate, the journey doesn’t end here – our mission just becomes more important and support from current and new donors becomes ever more vital. Please join us as we continue to champion inclusive music-making nationwide.”

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank Arts Council England for this incredible opportunity and our thoughts are with other organisations across the arts sector who will be receiving news today.

Please make a difference to a young musician’s life and donate today >