‘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.”
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!
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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.”
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