MUSICAL CHAIRS
Experience the magic of playing in a powerful symphony orchestra at this unforgettable one-day event!
What is Musical Chairs?
Perhaps you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to dust off that childhood viola that’s been sitting under your bed, or maybe you’ve always dreamed of learning to play an instrument but never quite got around to it?
If so, Orchestras for All’s winter fundraiser, Musical Chairs, could be right up your street!
Whether you’re a professional musician with years of experience or a complete beginner who fancies trying something new, it really doesn’t matter – Musical Chairs is totally inclusive and welcomes people of all ages and skill levels, from all backgrounds.
First, you’ll get to rehearse with our friendly team of orchestral tutors (who will be supported by members of our inspiring youth orchestra, National Orchestra for All!), before having the incredible opportunity to perform two pieces in concert.
Specially arranged for a mixed-ability ensemble, the pieces include ‘Allegro’, taken from Alice Mary Smith’s stunning Symphony in A minor, along with ‘Spoitoresa’, a traditional Romanian folk song that’s a firm favourite with our young musicians.
Special guest conductor and The Great British Bake Off presenter, Sue Perkins, certainly put our Musical Chairs orchestra through their paces!
Making a difference through the power of music
Musical Chairs isn’t just a fun day out – it’s also held for a good cause.
Each year, participants help us to raise money in sponsorship, with all funds contributing towards life-changing musical opportunities for young people nationwide who may not otherwise have had the chance to play music with others due to the daily challenges they face.
This year, our fundraising target is £30,000 and our suggested target for anyone getting involved is £300. You also have the option to donate to play, with a suggested donation of £300. Information on how to make the donation will be provided after you sign up (see below).
We are also very pleased to share that every penny raised (up to £10k) from this year’s Musical Chairs will be doubled thanks to generous match funding from Harriet's Trust.
Here’s how your support could help the young people we work with:
Helps us provide food and accommodation for one young musician attending an orchestral course through our charity.
Assists our wellbeing team to make vital calls, checking in with the most vulnerable young musicians we work with.
Helps us to pay for one under-resourced secondary school to attend a regional Modulo Meet at an iconic UK venue.
Contributes towards the fees for hiring a professional orchestral tutor to teach during our spring and summer courses.
Sponsors one young musician to participate in National Orchestra for All – the UK’s only completely inclusive national youth orchestra – for a whole year.
When and where is Musical Chairs?
A true highlight in the Orchestras for All calendar, this spectacular event will be taking place on Sunday 20th November 2022 at Westminster School, London, from 10:00am until 17:00pm.
The concert will start at 16:00pm, followed by a drinks reception from 17:00 until 18:00. Food and refreshments will also be provided throughout the day.
How do I sign up?
To participate, simply complete the sign-up form below and we’ll be in touch soon with your music and welcome pack. We’ll also set up your online fundraising page.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Join us for the live concert!
Keen to get involved in Musical Chairs this year but don’t want to play in the orchestra?
Come along to support this year’s participants as they take up the challenge of playing a new instrument and perform for an audience – after only one day of rehearsals.
The concert will take place between 16:00 and 17:00 on Sunday 20 November at Westminster School, London. Tickets are free and there is a drinks reception after the performance.
FAQS
I don’t have a musical instrument – can I still play?
Of course! If you don’t have the instrument you want to play to hand, why not ask a friend or family member? They might even be able to give you some handy tips on how to get started.
Alternatively, instruments are available to hire from local shops or you can look for people in your area who are giving away or selling their second-hand instruments.
If you’re really stuck finding an instrument, do send us an email at info@orchestrasforall.org as we may be able to help you source one. Once you’ve chosen your instrument, we’ll send you your music (specially arranged for your skill level) and some tips to help you start practising.
Will I get the music in advance?
After signing up, you’ll receive an email with full details about the event and links to download the music. This will mean you have some time to practise the music before the big day!
If you need us to provide the music in a different format, please email us at info@orchestrasforall.org and we’d be happy to help.
Can I bring a team of my colleagues?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for new and exciting ways to bond your team, you can sign up together. It’s for a good cause, after all – and we’ll do what we can to help you prepare!
