13 barrier-smashing highlights from Orchestras for All in 2023

From inclusive music-making activities and youth leadership developments to inspiring new additions to our team, here are a few charity highlights from over the past year…

1. Amplifying youth voice

Pictured: Ambassadors Tashan, Beau and Shannon support the OFA team at the Royal Academy of Music.

At Orchestras for All (OFA), youth voice is at the heart of everything that we do. That’s why we welcomed a dynamic new cohort of 10 Ambassadors and appointed 15 passionate individuals to the Youth Board – each playing a fundamental role in representing the wants and needs of the young people our charity supports as well as in the planning and delivery of our vital work in breaking down barriers to music-making nationwide.

“Like the other nine ambassadors, my job is to support the young people if they need anything or have any questions. Always happy to help! The thing I’m most excited about is seeing everyone play together at the end of the course as well as seeing how much progress everyone’s made.”

— Grace, Ambassador and National Orchestra for All alum

2. Sharing powerful stories and expert insights

Throughout the year, we were lucky enough to interview many of the inspiring young people who participate in OFA’s life-changing programmes – both in the “diary room” during our live events as well as virtually. We always learn so much from their often brave, motivating and heartwarming accounts. We also gained expert insights through speaking with arts industry professionals, such as BBC Young Jazz Musician 2022 finalist, Ralph Porrett, and composer and arranger, James Brady.

“It’s important that musical institutions think really seriously about diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility – and that’s why it’s so brilliant that young people can get involved with Orchestras for All.”

— Ralph Porrett, guitar tutor at OFA

3. A youth-led season of memorable music

National Orchestra for All members rehearse music from the ‘Hollow Knight’ soundtrack.

We’re keen to ensure that our repertoire always resonates with the personal interests and aspirations of our diverse community, so our Youth Board have been busy collaborating with OFA’s Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend, to co-design our current musical season. Video game soundtracks continue to be a popular choice with young people, so ‘Hornet’ and ‘Reflection’ (taken from Christopher Larkin’s video game soundtrack, Hollow Knight) made it to this year’s list, alongside ‘99 Red Balloons’, a protest song by 80s pop singer, Nena, and ‘Merry-Go-Round of Life’, a stunning piece written by Japanese film composer, Joe Hisaishi.

“It’s good at NOFA because there are a lot of video game music composers who get inspiration from orchestral music, but you never usually hear their music being played.”

— Christian, euphonium player at National Orchestra for All

4. Welcoming our Associate Conductor, Rocco

Associate Conductor, Rocco Brunori, leads the way during a performance at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

As well as expanding our team of Young Leaders in 2023, we were also proud to welcome another maestro to the charity to support us in delivering OFA’s artistic vision. Associate Conductor, Rocco Brunori, has been working closely with our Artistic Director and skilled team of professional orchestral tutors to bring vibrant new energy to our inclusive ensembles and arrangements. It’s all about dynamics, expression and sticking to the beat!

“I truly enjoy seeing so many young musicians and colleagues. I conduct all sorts of musical styles (symphonic, jazz, big band, wind band, choir and brass band) and I love the challenges this role is offering me. It’s never-ending fun!”

— Rocco Brunori, Associate Conductor

5. Securing new Arts Council England funding

Pictured: Trustees, Ambassadors, core team members and special guests gather in Birmingham.

In the spring, we were excited and grateful to hear the news that OFA would be one of the arts organisations receiving new funding from Arts Council England (ACE). Also known as the National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) Transfer Programme, this funding will help our charity deliver its creative and cultural activity over the next few years and as part of the programme, new NPOs are encouraged to move their registered office out of London to another UK-based location by October 2024. Watch this space!

“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.”

— Isaac, former National Orchestra for All Ambassador and young carer

6. Youth leadership takes centre stage

It takes two: Co-Chairs to the Board of Trustees, Susanna Eastburn (left) and Beth White (right).

The growth of our core team has also included welcoming OFA’s first-ever Youth Leadership Coordinator, Elen Derrett – a National Orchestra for All (NOFA) alum, cellist and recent Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama graduate. She is joined by NOFA alum and trumpeter, Beth White – our new Co-Chair to the Board of Trustees, working alongside Susanna Eastburn MBE. Both Elen and Beth have already made a positive impact and taken OFA’s youth leadership to the next level, regularly representing the charity at arts conferences and events across the UK.

“I am so excited to continue my OFA journey and delve deeper into the organisation. I have found such a fulfilling purpose over these last few years volunteering in numerous roles and can’t wait to see what this new venture as Co-Chair brings.”

— Beth, Co-Chair to the Board of Trustees

7. Spring activity with Modulo and National Orchestra for All

Making friends through the power of music: A group of young participants bond during a Modulo Meet.

With the launch of NOFA’s new season and our first few Modulo Meets of the year all taking place throughout March and April, our spring months were filled with joy, connection and young participants being empowered to take ownership over their music-making. From London’s Cecil Sharp House to the University of York, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire to the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, our first tour of the year left us with memories to last a lifetime.

“For me, playing instruments is the best part about music. I think it’s very exciting and I really enjoy it.”

— Xander, Modulo participant and bassoonist

8. Summer extravaganzas

Of course, the musical fun didn’t stop in the spring! During our summer activity, NOFA and Modulo musicians played everything from traditional orchestral works written by underrepresented female composers – including the first movement of Florence Price’s Symphony No. 1 in E minor – to improvised pieces such as ‘Strength in Numbers’, which was written in collaboration with NOFA and Joe Broughton. Young musicians also shared their love of music with their peers in our famed NOFA recital evening – a true annual highlight!

“When you’re improvising, you can do nothing but think of the song you are playing, which gives you a sense of freedom.”

— Farbod, National Orchestra for All flautist

9. Wellbeing remains at the forefront of our work

Pictured: Orchestras for All’s new Wellbeing Lead, Sasha, kickstarts a NOFA day with some relaxing stretches.

At OFA, the wellbeing, safety and happiness of all young people and staff is our top priority. We do everything in our power to promote welcoming, inclusive and accessible spaces and are committed to creating a positive safeguarding culture. This year, Sasha Mattock joined the core team as our new Wellbeing Lead and her key focus is to embed wellbeing at every level of the organisation. The young people we work with have also been encouraged to write ‘About me’ profiles, sharing their individual needs and preferences with us in their own words.

“When I found Orchestras for All, it showed me there are places that value wellbeing completely. It makes me excited that I can use the skills and knowledge I have developed to contribute to creating spaces that support wellbeing.”

— Sasha Mattock, Wellbeing Lead

10. Live webinars for music leaders

As part of our Music Leadership Training programme, we held a series of live webinars for music teachers and leaders across the UK – including a session on ‘Inclusive Arranging for Mixed Ensembles’. Drawing on experience from NOFA and Modulo, and led by Glasgow-based arranger and music educator, James Brady, the webinar introduced participants to practical arranging techniques and approaches, while also exploring the importance of repertoire choice, instrumentation templates and the essential connection between musical content and rehearsal techniques.

“For many of us working in music education, buying arrangements off the shelf isn’t always the best solution. We’re often dealing with groups with wide ranges of ability, or unusual instrumental line-ups, or mixing different genres of music – and this is something we do at NOFA and Modulo all the time.”

— James Brady, arranger and orchestral tutor at Orchestras for All

11. Inspiring away days

Orchestras for All’s Youth Board, Trustees, core team members and guests meet for an inspiring away day.

Throughout the year, we held thought-provoking away days in a variety of London locations for OFA’s Youth Board, Trustees and core team. Most recently, we discussed key topics such as wellbeing, the environment, artistic development, diversity, inclusion and accessibility as well as how our charity and its activities could become even more youth led in future. Every decision we make at our charity is guided by young people: “Nothing about us, without us.”

“I cannot do all the good the world needs. But the world needs all the good that I can do.”

— Co-Chair, Beth, shares a quote from Jana Stanfield with away day attendees

12. Advocacy at national conferences

Making an impact: Executive Director, Nick Thorne, and Youth Leadership Coordinator, Elen Derrett.

To help raise awareness of our charity’s vision, life-changing impact and unique approach, ‘The OFA Way’, with other organisations across the arts sector, we regularly took to the stage at national conferences. Our new Youth Leadership Coordinator, Elen, recently attended Music Mark’s annual conference in Southampton and gave an insightful presentation to delegates about the importance of youth leadership within music education.

“As a National Orchestra for All alum, I feel very privileged to be able to share Orchestras for All’s powerful approach to youth leadership with the world.”

— Elen, Youth Leadership Coordinator and former NOFA cellist

13. Soothing sounds at National Orchestra for All’s winter regionals

A group of NOFA musicians play Gamelan instruments as a percussionist tries his hand at conducting.

To wrap up another memorable year, we held a series of one-day winter sessions for NOFA members in York, London and Glasgow. Here we introduced them to the enchanting sounds of Indonesia’s beautiful Gamelan instruments – and unlike traditional orchestral instruments, they can be picked up by ear, so do not always require sheet music. This makes them the perfect choice for an inclusive group and with the relaxing ambience they create, listening to Gamelan music can be a great way to boost your wellbeing and unwind after a busy day too. Give it a go!

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank each of the incredible individuals and organisations who have been part of our journey in 2023. Without you, our life-changing programmes wouldn’t exist. We are so grateful for your ongoing support and can’t wait to see what the future holds. Roll on 2024!

Keen to support young people in fulfilling their musical dreams?
Please donate what you can to our charity today:

7 wonderful ways that youth leadership will empower your youth orchestra

Because young people are the future…

At Orchestras for All (OFA), we believe that youth leadership holds the potential to transform the future of orchestral music.

By encouraging young people to take on leadership roles – such as becoming an Ambassador, joining a Youth Board or providing support to an ensemble as a Young Leader, youth orchestras can benefit from fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and remain connected to modern trends.

What’s more, youth leadership can help to foster an inclusive musical community that keeps young people engaged (just like in National Orchestra for All!) as well as boost a young person’s wellbeing and social skills.

Are you a member of a youth orchestra or a music leader looking to improve your practice? If so, here are seven key reasons why you should consider embracing youth leadership in your ensemble...

Read more: In pictures: tour highlights from the summer Modulo Programme 2022 >

1. Encouraging creativity and innovation

Let’s face it, young people are brilliant at bringing unique ideas to the table. At OFA, we find they are often more open to experimentation, suggest new ideas for repertoire or live concerts, are keen to collaborate or learn from diverse artists, and use their knowledge of current technology to help us create captivating musical experiences that can reach broader audiences.

Watch this epic live concert starring one of the world’s most inclusive youth orchestras >

Young people can also act as great representatives during your live shows, assist with production (for example, at NOFA recital evenings), engage in game-changing discussions with partners and funders, and join the team as Trustees or Ambassadors.

2. Promoting diversity, inclusivity and accessibility

Pictured: An inspiring group of National Orchestra for All musicians enjoy their summer 2023 residential.

With social media platforms like TikTok making it easier than ever to share knowledge and hold live debates, young people can often be more attuned to current issues surrounding diversity, inclusion and accessibility.

We find that regularly involving young leaders in areas such as programming and key decision-making leads to greater representation of different backgrounds and demographics, contributing to a much more vibrant and inclusive culture. This cultural richness will not only enhances your orchestra and its reach, it will make your ensemble more representative of our society as a whole.

““If we have orchestras with more diversity, I think it can bring new ideas as music from around the world comes in all different forms.””

— Christian, euphonium player in National Orchestra for All

3. Boosting key skills

Leading the way: A Modulo participant tries her hand at conducting with our Associate Conductor, Rocco.

By helping to develop a young person’s musical skills, creating youth leadership opportunities within your orchestra can provide valuable life experience.

Taking on roles within orchestral management – from organising events and fundraising, to marketing and artistic planning – enables a young people to improve vital skills such as teamwork and time management as well as improving their ability to organise and communicate with others – benefitting them both personally and professionally, in any career path they choose to follow in future.

““I have always wanted to go teach and always liked the idea of music therapy. Being part of NOFA has really built my confidence for that.” ”

— Abz, National Orchestra for All percussionist

4. Peer-to-peer mentorship

Orchestras for All Ambassadors, Nell (left) and Chloe (right) help the core team at NOFA’s summer residential.

There’s no doubt that young leaders can act as inspiring role models for their peers – and at OFA, we see this happen every day! Strengthening relationships and fostering a supportive and collaborative environment within a youth orchestra creates a positive cycle of learning, where knowledge and skills are shared more freely among members.

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

Many of our Ambassadors or alumni of the Modulo Programme and National Orchestra for All choose to take on wellbeing roles, or offer their support in different instrumental sections by rehearsing and performing with the ensembles during live activity.

““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.” ”

— Xia, Wellbeing Tutor

5. Building confidence and self-esteem

Soaring strings: Three National Orchestra for All violinists celebrate their instruments during a rehearsal.

Youth leadership opportunities are incredibly important as they also give young people the chance to take ownership over their experiences, which creates an empowering learning environment in which they can build their confidence and self-esteem.

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

Playing in an orchestra often requires you to spend a lot of time following directions from your conductor (we’re looking at you, Emma and Rocco!) as well as the instructions written on your sheet music. In a traditional ensemble, there are few scenarios where a young musician would have full control over what they are doing, so why not offer them the opportunity through youth leadership?

““Before joining National Orchestra for All, I felt helpless – but now I’ve grown in confidence and independence.””

— Noah, Ambassador

6. Boosting social awareness

Pictured: Orchestras for All Ambassador, Tashan, is sharing his views with the audience during a concert

Increasingly, we’re seeing young people become the champions of social issues and drivers of widespread change (think the Kanneh-Masons, Greta Thunberg and Lewis Capaldi, among many others), with social media being used as an effective tool to help spread important messages and reach young audiences.

Youth leadership positions in orchestras also gives young people a platform to raise awareness about the topics they care most about – from climate change and mental health, to social justice and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community – using the power of music to spark conversations with others and create a positive ripple effect.

Read more: 504 students from 35 UK schools to perform a protest song as part of Orchestras for All’s Modulo Programme >

7. Sustainability and long-term vision

Members of the OFA core team, Ambassadors, Trustees and guests at NOFA’s summer 2023 residential.

By involving young people in key decision-making processes and giving them the chance to act as advocates – for example, in developing sustainable practices for your orchestra, you’ll benefit from their forward-thinking perspectives and ensure the relevance and longevity of your youth orchestra.

At OFA, we know that youth leadership is a catalyst for positive change and growth. By continuing to harness the passions of the young people we engage in our inclusive programmes, we can create a better musical landscape that resonates with both current and future generations.

Keen to support young musicians nationwide?
Please donate what you can to Orchestras for All:

Meet National Orchestra for All musicians, Lola and Christian

From building their confidence to boosting their skills, two of our Coventry-based members share their NOFA story…

This week, the inspiring group of young people known as National Orchestra for All (NOFA) will be reuniting in the striking surrounds of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire for their exciting summer residential.

Taking place from 1-4 August, the four-day event will be a non-stop celebration of inclusive music-making and togetherness, with each member of the diverse ensemble being fully supported throughout – both musically and emotionally, based on their individual needs and preferences – by a friendly team of professional tutors.

While NOFA’s lively gatherings have always been joyous and memorable in equal measure, with nearly 100 young people from across the UK now making their way to the Conservatoire, we’re pleased to share that the youth orchestra has finally reached its pre-pandemic numbers – making this residential especially significant.

Ahead of the musical festivities, we caught up with 12-year-old flautist, Lola, and 17-year-old euphonium player, Christian, who were both introduced to NOFA via Coventry Music Hub, to find out what it means to be part of our vibrant musical family.

Read more: In pictures – tour highlights from the summer Modulo Programme 2023 >

Sharing her thoughts on what makes NOFA so special (watch full interview above), Lola said: “Meeting new friends and building my confidence. I love the music we’re playing and I like seeing people who play the same instrument as me! When I first joined, when I first played, I felt like I wasn’t getting judged.

“I feel like people think in their own opinion that they're getting judged – but when you play, it lets it all out and you have confidence. If you mess up or feel like people are going to laugh or like you’re getting judged all the time, you’re not.”

Describing why other young people should join an orchestra like NOFA, she added: “Music, in my opinion, is about expressing yourself in your own way. I feel like you should definitely join an orchestra because it’s really helped me with talking to people and with playing my instrument. It’s helped me learn new notes and different dynamics. You get better at your instrument and you can hear all the other instruments. If you want to play another instrument, then you can hear that too!”

Lola isn’t the only young musician looking forward to the summer residential. Speaking about his experience with NOFA (watch full interview below), Christian told us: “In a lot of orchestras, the only person with the power is probably the conductor, maybe the concertmaster. I’m literally just a person on the euphonium, which a lot of people wouldn’t pay attention to, but at NOFA, I’ve had talks with people to try and see if I can learn new repertoire and even conducted the orchestra myself, so I think that’s pretty cool!”

Explaining why he feels diversity and inclusion is so important, he commented: “Back when we had Baroque, Classical, Romantic music… a lot of it was written by white composers, with white musicians playing it. A lot of the time you’d never see anybody else from different backgrounds in orchestras, or composing or playing the music.

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

“I think that if we have orchestras with more diversity, it can bring new ideas as music from around the world comes in all different forms. With African drumming, rhythm is given a lot more emphasis. Then if we go to Indian music, they have different scales, which Western music wouldn’t use.”

Highlighting some of the music in NOFA’s current season of repertoire, Christian said: “The first one I want to talk about is from a video game called Hollow Knight, which I think is quite interesting as compared to the other seasons I’ve played in, this is the first time we’ve done a song from a game, which I think is pretty good! There are a lot of game composers that get inspiration from orchestral music but you never really hear them played, unlike some of the bigger composers.”

Pictured: 17-year-old NOFA member, Christian, tries his hand at conducting during the spring residential

“The other piece is called ‘Ghost Town’, which is by a band who actually originated in Coventry! The song talks about what Coventry was like when it went through an era of everything going wrong. Everything was really bad then – and the song just talks about that time. The piece we’re playing is basically just an orchestral version of it, which is quite interesting because I don’t think I would be able to make an orchestral composition of a song like that!

“[NOFA] does help a lot of young musicians to build their musical ability; when I first started, I’d say I was terrible at euphonium. The repertoire they’ve given me, especially in the last season when we did ‘A Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’, was very challenging – but I’m able to play it now and I think that challenge is really good as it helps you to improve.”

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank our funders, Arts Council England, the Department for Education and D’Oyly Carte Charitable Trust, as well as our individual donors and charity volunteers, for making this life-changing musical programme possible.

To support the young people in National Orchestra for All and contribute towards our vital work, please donate what you can today:

‘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 >

Orchestras for All relaunches programmes in a bid to improve access to group music-making for young people across the UK

The life-changing programmes aim to break down significant barriers to music-making for young people who need it the most.

With a new season of musical activity just on the horizon, Orchestras for All (OFA) is delighted to announce that it is now recruiting young musicians and schools nationwide as it relaunches two of its core programmes: Modulo and National Orchestra for All.

Specially designed to kickstart a fun culture of inclusive music-making in maintained schools and local communities, Modulo assists under-resourced teachers and music leaders to set up or develop their own ensemble (known as a “Modulo”) of between four and 15 young people aged 11-18, before they team up to play with other groups as one epic orchestra at “Modulo Meets”.

All young people are welcome to join a Modulo regardless of their musical ability, previous experience or chosen instrument – so whether they’re tab-reading guitarists, open string players, keyboardists or simply keen to play a traditional orchestral instrument with other like-minded individuals, there’s room for everyone to thrive.

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.”

Read more: Orchestras for All’s Artistic Director Emma Oliver-Trend announced as host of new webinar for music leaders >

Pictured: Young musicians from schools across the country play together during a Modulo Meet.

A Modulo teacher added: “Watching the pupils supporting each other was such a joy. Although they’re all from the same year group, they’re not necessarily from the same classes but I can see new friendships forming.”

Find out more about the Modulo Programme >

Meanwhile, the charity’s non-auditioned, inclusive national youth orchestra, National Orchestra for All (NOFA), is open to 100 young musicians aged 11-19 who face significant barriers in their daily lives – whether that’s due to physical disability, a mental health condition, rural isolation or economic deprivation.

NOFA harnesses the orchestra as a catalyst for social change, offering transformative experiences that build a young person’s social and communication skills, while also boosting their confidence and introducing them to diverse new communities.

For both NOFA and Modulo, repertoire is carefully selected to represent the season’s theme, with last year’s ‘The Way We See It’ represented by Britten’s iconic ‘Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’, an uplifting musical crossover written by Jack McNeill celebrating club culture, an infectiously catchy arrangement of a Romanian folk tune and a beautiful symphonic poem from Alice Mary Smith. For this next season’s theme, OFA’s repertoire celebrates music and change, along with an exclusive new piece written by members of NOFA.

National Orchestra for All (NOFA) members play the melodica at their 2022 summer residential.

During NOFA’s spring 2022 residential, NOFA oboeist, Lily, said: “I love all the different music we play – I wouldn’t perform this type of music in my orchestra back home, so it’s nice to have that balance between classical music and dance music like ‘Crossfade’ and ‘Spoitoresa’. It’s great to have the variety.

“Being part of NOFA has also helped me to develop as a musician – the music we’re learning takes you out of your comfort zone but not to the point of breaking you, so it’s good to have that little push.”

Meet NOFA’s inspiring musicians >

Seventeen-year-old keyboardist Troy commented: “In secondary school, I didn’t have much going for me and didn’t have many opportunities, but then my teacher found NOFA and suggested that I should apply.

“I’m so happy that I did – it’s amazing and has made my life much more interesting! I can brag about being in an orchestra to my friends but it’s also really fun as there’s loads of activities happening and more opportunities to perform and connect with other people as well.”

NOFA musicians and ambassadors enjoy an evening of games and activities at their spring 2022 residential.

Polly, parent to keen NOFA trumpeter, Cameron, added: “The work OFA does is amazing and there is no other setting where Cameron feels as happy, included and valued as with the NOFA family. Thank you so much for everything your team do to give Cam a place to belong, just the way he is and for bringing out the very best in him.”

Orchestras for All would like to take this opportunity to thank its loyal funders, individual donors and advocates for their ongoing support towards NOFA and the Modulo Programme.

Are you a maintained secondary school with limited access to music-making, or perhaps you’re looking for inspirational events for your students to participate in? Find out more about Modulo and sign up here.

Are you a musician aged 11-16 facing daily barriers, who wants to experience the magic of playing in an inclusive orchestra? Learn more about National Orchestra for All here.

Watch this epic live concert starring one of the world’s most inclusive youth orchestras

It’ll brighten your day.

In July 2022, National Orchestra for All’s diverse young ensemble treated a Nottingham audience to an afternoon of powerful orchestral music – and it was pure joy.

Titled ‘The Way We See It’ (a tribute to the season’s theme), the one-hour concert was held at the city’s prestigious Albert Hall and celebrated all that the orchestra, better known as NOFA, has achieved over the past two years – and in spite of global uncertainty following the coronavirus pandemic.

While NOFA’s inspiring members each face significant challenges in their daily lives – from physical disability and mental health conditions to rural isolation and economic deprivation – they can leave their troubles at the door when taking centre stage and instead, focus on doing what they love the most: making epic music together.

During the show (watch video above), we see the musicians – who come from all corners of the country – team up with NOFA’s squad of tutors and alumni to perform an eclectic programme of music, accompanied by newly-written spoken word produced in collaboration with witty Nottingham-based poet and comedian, Ben Macpherson.

NOFA cellist and Orchestras for All youth board member, Chloe, told attendees: “Playing in an orchestra is playing with pieces of puzzles. These pieces are like a well-lit forest: enormous and sometimes scary. It’s super important to keep counting.”

Read more: ‘The Way We See It’ – National Orchestra for All’s Nottingham concert in pictures >

Pictured: National Orchestra for All performs a powerful end-of-season concert in Nottingham.

She continued: “One musical family, playing equally important roles, working in unison to create and develop an atmosphere: diverse and talented, very colourful and fast, forgetting to count to four.”

NOFA violinist, Alasdair, added: “Synchronised swimming in sound form. A triangle of unity, mistakes and waves. All of it feels good. The power of an orchestra when everyone works as a team. Work harder, challenge myself more, sitting next to a great musician, forgetting to count to four.”

They were joined by esteemed conductor, José Salazar, who first rose to fame after participating in Venezuela’s prestigious El Sistema programme and was coined by the media as “the world’s youngest conductor”.

It was surely a memorable occasion, with each piece of music specially selected to reflect the season’s modern theme as well as one of Orchestras for All’s key values: harnessing the power of youth voice.

Repertoire included a stunning rendition of ‘Andromède’, a symphonic poem drawn from the myth of Greek goddess, Andromede, which was penned by French-Irish female singer, pianist and composer, Augusta Holmès, in 1883.

National Orchestra for All members take a moment from playing to enjoy spoken word at the event.

This was followed by ‘Crossfade’, British composer Jack McNeill’s unique take on a musical crossover that expertly fuses traditional orchestral instrumentation with electronic influences and boasts a steady beat reminiscent of popular club culture.

Listen to other music by Jack McNeill and NOFA >

And of course, no summer concert would be complete without an iconic masterpiece from one of the late great composers – this time, Britten’s ‘Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’.

Also known as ‘Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell’, the spectacular 1945 work is based on the second movement of the Abdelazer suite, ‘Rondeau’, and was originally intended to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra – making it just as relevant with classical fans today.

On the surface, we hear variations played by a whole host of instruments and groups, with the style of each section telling us about a particular quality of that instrument, while characters tell their stories through the music within a unifying theme that celebrates the diversity of the orchestra itself.

Grand finale: Audience members take to their feet and cheer on NOFA’s bright young musicians.

Finally, a lively performance of ‘Spoitoresa’ – arranged by Mahala Rai Banda, OFA’s Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend, and Jack McNeill – had audience members up on their feet as NOFA trumpeter, Tashan, encouraged a memorable moment of crowd participation with a good-humoured lesson in body percussion.

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank each of our loyal funders – Arts Council England, Association of British Orchestras – Sirens Fund, Finzi Trust, Foyle Foundation, Headley Trust, Promenaders’, Musical Charities, The Radcliffe Trust, Michael Tippett Musical Foundation, Samuel Gardner Memorial Trust, Sarum Hall School Parents' Association, University of Warwick and Youth Music – as well as our individual donors, advocates, Trinity Catholic School, photographer Will Pace, Broaden Films, orchestral and wellbeing tutors as well as our team of volunteers for making NOFA’s summer residential and live concert possible.

Please support us in breaking down barriers to music education and donate today >

Ben Macpherson: ‘Put the notes in the instruments of musicians, not those who can pay to hear them’

The British writer and performer recently collaborated with National Orchestra for All, so we caught up with him to find out more…

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

I’m Ben Macpherson, a writer and performer based in Nottingham whose work stretches from serious theatre all the way through to nonsense poetry aimed at children and their families. Within that work is sketch comedy that has been heard on Radio 4, improvised plays from the Star Wars universe and much more.

Linking all of these together is a feeling of playfulness and the role of individuals in relation to their community. For over a decade I’ve been a part of the Nottingham creative scene, making connections in theatre, comedy and spoken word circles. This has led to a career that thinks across medium, building works that draw on many different disciplines for a pretty unique writer and performer.

2.     Who (or what) inspired you to become a writer and performer? 

My route to becoming a creative came through nonsense poetry and sketch comedy. I fit this around a normal job for seven years after university but the opportunity to go full-time came up in 2020 and I took it.

It was a bit scary making that choice during a pandemic but well worth it now. As I worked at my craft I got involved with improv (improvisational) theatre, scripted theatre and more serious spoken word, so I am now excited to work in any range of fields that I get to explore words in.

Read more: ‘The Way We See It’ – National Orchestra for All’s Nottingham concert in pictures >

Pictured: Spoken word artist, Ben Macpherson, runs a creative workshop with National Orchestra for All

3.    What have been some of your career highlights so far?

With such a wide range of work, it is hard to choose any one particular highlight. Working on my first full length play earlier in 2022 was wonderful. It is called Horsemen, and tells the tale of the four horsemen of the apocalypse immediately after the world ends when they are stuck in a limbo of their own creation.

It was dark, funny and ultimately hopeful about choosing the right path for yourself. I’m also very proud of working with Michael Rosen at the Nottingham Poetry Festival.

4.    You recently collaborated with National Orchestra for All in Nottingham – could you tell us a little about that?

I was recently brought in to work with NOFA members as a spoken word artist to create new spoken word sections for Benjamin Britten’s ‘Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.’ The piece originally takes its audience through the sections and instruments of an orchestra step by step but the plan for this work was to capture the spirit of an orchestra.

We explored what it means to the young people who are part of it. The group I worked with created so much and shared so freely, exploring their relationships with each other, their instruments, their sections and the expectations put on them as musicians. I was so proud of what they had achieved, the full symphony of personal, poignant and playful.

Learn more about National Orchestra for All >

5.    What did you enjoy the most about working with NOFA?

It was delightful to see these musicians show their creativity in a different way. Skills in rhythm and timing came so naturally to them and the pieces were so varied and creative, from an acrostic poem exploring the panic of a musician performing to the back and forth of two performers ribbing each other’s sections for being too loud or egotistical. Everyone shared their words courageously and got a brilliant response.

“The group of young musicians I worked with at NOFA created so much and shared so freely,” says Ben

6.    Comedy writing is your “first great love” – did you try to incorporate this into your work with NOFA?

Absolutely! Often people get intimidated by spoken word and poetry because it feels like it needs to be serious, worthy or introspective. As a comedian I have learnt to take comedy seriously and as for whether something is worthy or not, it is our job as performers to decide what is worthy for an audience.

Who says what we examine in ourselves has to be painful? Sharing and exploring fun naturally creates comedy, because we laugh at the connection we recognise in others. The NOFA members who shared their words invited audiences into their world, where we could connect with familiar relationships and feelings – no wonder that got laughs!

Read more: “The final performances were astounding!”: National Orchestra for All’s Manager reflects on her year >

7.    Why do you feel that diversity, inclusion and youth voice are so important in today’s world?

The decision makers in the arts so often fit a particular mould. They often come from a degree privilege with traits that align with a western patriarchal optimum. That is increasingly not reflective of society where, as the world shrinks more voice can be heard.

By putting diversity and inclusion at the heart of your creative work, you help tell new and exciting stories. You hear songs that you don’t know the words to and you discover something new. Of course, new can be scary and challenging but by embracing this an engine of collaborations get discovered.

Youth voice is the fuel that drives the engine. If young voices aren’t included then arts go extinct and you see a shrinking cultural literacy and interest of the population. If that diminishes it becomes harder for everyone, from programmers to performers, to keep the arts alive.

Ben Macpherson prepares National Orchestra for All’s young musicians for their final summer performance

8.    If you could share three top tips with aspiring writers/performers, what would they be?

If you want to write it, it’s worth writing about. If you want to perform it, it is worth performing. The only person you have to please with what you create is yourself. Audiences and praise are fun (really, really fun), but if what you are doing doesn’t matter to you then it will slowly take the joy from it.

Find your community. They will help you grow and teach you more than you could imagine. If performing is your thing then try a theatre group or comedy open mic night. If writing is more your speed, then there are dozens of writing support groups and you can find these both online and in person. The barriers are coming down.

If something is worth doing, it is worth doing badly. As creatives it is easy to get caught up in the pursuit of perfect. The problem with that is perfect is subjective. Our memories make things perfect so write the terrible first version of an idea, recite your poem and forget your words. You can always edit and fine tune later.

9.    And finally, why should people join Orchestras for All’s mission in breaking down barriers to music-making?

Orchestras for All is vital for the future of orchestral music. It directly challenges the paradigm of elitist music by putting the notes in the instruments of the musicians, not the hands of the people who can pay for it. In one of our writing sessions we talked about how the group engaged with orchestral music outside of the NOFA setting and one of the most popular ways was the music of film and video games.

These routes have broken down barriers to hearing the music of an orchestra, so why should the barriers to making orchestral music be any higher?  If great young musicians are gradually blocked out then the musical world shrinks and creativity withers until audiences are stuck hearing the same canon of canons, symphonies and fugues as the art fossilises. With the amazing talent and dedication of NOFA’s performers, tutors and organisers that will not be allowed to happen.

Please support our life-changing work with young musicians and donate today >

‘The Way We See It’ – National Orchestra for All’s Nottingham concert in pictures

A colourful selection of memories from our youth orchestra’s summer extravaganza, courtesy of photographer Will Pace.

1. Trumpeter, Tashan, welcomes audience members to National Orchestra for All’s end-of-season concert.

2. National Orchestra for All (NOFA): the UK’s only fully-inclusive, non-auditioned youth orchestra.

3. Setting up our instruments at iconic Nottingham venue, the Albert Hall Conference Centre.

4. Orchestras for All’s Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend, prepares to lead the way.

5. Emma was joined by special guest and internationally-recognised conductor, José Salazar.

6. Brass at the ready…

7. Our marvellous woodwind section!

8. NOFA collaborated with writer Ben Macpherson to produce spoken word for the event. (Pictured: Kali)

9. Sharing powerful messages through music, humour and rhyme. (Pictured: Vanessa)

10. Our young people blew everyone away with their inspiring words. (Pictured: Alasdair)

11. NOFA keyboardist, Troy, truly makes an impact.

12. Inclusivity means welcoming all kinds of instruments – even melodicas! (Pictured: Kali, Matt, Jesse)

13. Breaking down barriers: guitarist, Kit, rocks out to Britten.

14. The bassooner the better… (Pictured right: Isabelle)

15. Say hello to the strings!

16. Orchestral tutor, Andres, creates a powerful sound with keen percussionist, Abz.

17. We’ll never tire of hearing the cello.

18. Fluttering flautists…

19. Thomas (pictured left) flew all the way from Northern Ireland to perform at the event!

20. The cheerful colours of our ensemble’s t-shirts were chosen by our young people.

21. We’ll always make time for sweet violin solos.

22. Our wellbeing tutors always know how to light up the room.

23. Being part of this wonderful community makes us smile! (Pictured: Tom)

24. Musical highlight: an energetic rendition of Mahala Rai Banda’s Balkan folk tune, ‘Spoitoresa’.

25. Trumpeter, Cameron, making memories with his pals in the brass.

26. Standing tall at the Albert Hall. (Pictured: Tashan and Ricardo)

27. National Orchestra for All alumni, Elen and Declan, were buzzing after the show!

28. Wellbeing tutor, George, was on hand to congratulate our inspiring young performers.

29. NOFA trombonist, Haseeb, bids farewell to his orchestra friends after an epic summer of music-making.

30. “Hip, hip, hooray!” – NOFA cellist, Michael, celebrates the end of a fantastic concert with our audience.

Thank you to all who attended ‘The Way We See It’ – our young musicians had a blast and it wouldn’t have been the same without you!

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank each of our loyal funders – Arts Council England, Association of British Orchestras – Sirens Fund, Finzi Trust, Foyle Foundation, Headley Trust, Promenaders’, Musical Charities, The Radcliffe Trust, Michael Tippett Musical Foundation, Samuel Gardner Memorial Trust, Sarum Hall School Parents' Association, University of Warwick and Youth Music – as well as our individual donors, advocates, photographer Will Pace, Broaden Films, orchestral and wellbeing tutors and team of volunteers for making NOFA’s summer residential and live concert possible.

Missed out? Don’t fret – an exclusive recording of NOFA’s summer concert is coming soon, so watch this space…

To fund a life-changing programme like National Orchestra for All, please donate today >

“The final performances were astounding!”: National Orchestra for All’s Manager reflects on her year

The end of a truly special season…

At the start of 2020, National Orchestra for All’s core team of staff had no idea that all their plans for the next cohort of young musicians would swiftly be scrapped and re-imagined in a way that the season had never been delivered before.

My name is Paula Morgan and I joined Orchestras for All (OFA) in February 2022 as NOFA’s new Programme Manager – a role I proudly took on. Shortly after, we would be delivering two residentials in person for the first time since the effects of the pandemic swept the nation.

No easy task. However, my motivation was spurred on by the NOFA members who had kept the orchestra alive via Zoom in spite of the world rapidly changing around them.

When planning the residential in April, a lot of thought and consideration went into how these young people would feel after being placed in a room of more than 100 people and, for some of them, playing their instrument outside the safety of their own home for the first time ever.

Read more: National Orchestra for All comes to Nottingham this summer with a powerful end-of-season concert >

National Orchestra for All musicians gather during their spring residential in Birmingham

Making music during a global pandemic

We’re all aware of the devastating impact the pandemic has had – especially on our young people – and so, for NOFA, our wellbeing programme was more important this year than ever. Artistically, they had been learning online for the past two years and finally had the opportunity to bring it all together.

We were so lucky to host our spring residential at iconic music venue, the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. Our young musicians travelled from every corner of the UK on buses, trains, planes, and taxis.

While there were a few anxious faces meeting us for the first time, many excited members were glad to be reunited with old friends. Others were curious about what the next few days would entail. We had a huge, friendly support team on hand to help guide them throughout as well as our wonderful team of orchestral tutors, wellbeing tutors, core staff members, volunteers and of course, NOFA’s influential Young Ambassadors.

We spent the next few days rehearsing the season’s diverse selection of repertoire, honing our skills and spending time socially to bond as a cohort.

The famed recital evening, a tradition enjoyed by young people and adults alike at each NOFA residential, had us all in tears as usual. The final performances (watch below) were astounding! Despite some of our young musicians struggling during the week and having to take time out, they all got on stage in the end and it sounded incredible.  

Experiencing for the first time – and in person – what NOFA is able to achieve in a few short days blew me away and spurred me on even more to prepare for our next residential.

A summer to remember

NOFA’s summer residential was hosted in Nottingham at Trinity Catholic School (also known as the school of the Kanneh- Mason siblings) and provided the perfect space for our ensemble to gather together.

With NOFA’s end-of-season public performance just on the horizon at the Albert Hall Conference Centre, we all made the most of our fun-filled week of playing music together, rehearsing the repertoire and welcoming young people who had attended in-person for the first time.

We were also thrilled to have José Ángel Salazar-Marin, Director of El Sistema Greece, to work with our young people, alongside OFA’s brilliant Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend.

Throughout the season, the level of commitment, dedication, patience and participation shown from everyone involved was astounding. This paid off after witnessing the orchestra’s memorable final performance – featuring striking new words written by NOFA members and spoken word artist, Ben MacPherson – at the end of our summer residential.

Here are a few of my favourite quotes from our young musicians before the final performance:

NOFA trumpeter, Tashan, said: “We’ve got a concert coming up! I’m super excited – we’re gonna play quite a few fun pieces at the Albert Hall. I can’t wait!”

Another NOFA member said: “I’m looking forward to the adrenaline rush that we get when we finish playing our pieces. [After the course], it’ll be sad though to see all our friends go back to wherever they came from!”

National Orchestra for All performs live in concert at the Albert Hall Conference Centre in Nottingham

A keen percussionist added: “Guys, just remember: percussion is the best section! Make sure to listen out for our amazing solo during ‘The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’.”

The OFA team were also really pleased to have received so much positive feedback from our audience members:

• “As parents to sit in the audience and watch [our daughter] being part of this truly amazing and talented orchestra was one of our proudest moments!”

•  “I saw your recent concert at the Albert Hall, Nottingham. It was brilliant. Good enough for the London Albert Hall!”

• “Inspiring. Elevating. Fun.”

Final thoughts

To get through a pandemic and wrap up the season in the way that we did was truly special.

One NOFA member took to their feet to shout, “Hip hip!”, to which we responded, “Hooray!”. So, I say hip hip hooray to many more events with NOFA and would like to thank anyone reading this who helped us make this season happen or came to see us perform.

We’ll be sharing an image gallery of our favourite moments very soon and for anyone who missed out, or for those who would love to see it again, a video recording of NOFA’s final concert will also be available to view in full – watch this space!

To fund a life-changing musical programme like NOFA, please donate today >

National Orchestra for All comes to Nottingham this summer with a powerful end-of-season concert

This one’s not to be missed…

Orchestras for All (OFA) is excited to announce that its National Orchestra for All (NOFA) members will be performing live in concert this summer – and we would love for you to join us!

Titled ‘The Way We See It’, the musical extravaganza – which is free to attend – is due to take place at the Albert Hall Conference Centre in Nottingham on Friday 29 July at 3:00p.m. and will celebrate all that our epic orchestra has achieved over the past two years.

From stomping Balkan tunes and anthemic clubby dance, to rousing Romantic music and one of Britten’s most iconic works, ‘The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra’ (1945) – including newly-written spoken words – the eclectic programme of music will surely make it an afternoon to remember.

Along with OFA’s Artistic Director, Emma Oliver-Trend, the ensemble will be led by esteemed international maestro and violinist, José Ángel Salazar – who quickly rose to fame at the age of 14 after participating in Venezuela’s El Sistema music programme and became the world’s youngest conductor. Since then, José’s musical career has taken him to new heights and seen him work with a host of established orchestras as well as with communities of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Artistic Director at Orchestras for All, Emma Oliver-Trend, said: “We are all feeling really excited about NOFA’s summer concert. The friendship, commitment to the orchestra and love of music really shine through in our young people’s performance.”

Read more: Orchestras for All wins award for Outstanding Musical Initiative at the Music and Drama Education Awards 2022 >

She continued: “This is a showcase of some superb orchestral music and hopefully, with something for everyone. I'm particularly excited that we are finding fun and easy ways for the audience to get involved in the performance too, so they get to share in the joy that is NOFA. A fun, friendly, family concert!”

Aged between 11 and 19, NOFA’s diverse young members come from all corners of the country and thanks to our charity’s fully-inclusive, non-auditioned programme, they have been able to experience the joy of music-making with others regardless of the daily barriers they face.

Orchestras for All is also working in close partnership with The Trinity Catholic School as part of the event, with a group of its pupils performing live alongside NOFA.

Nottingham Music Hub CEO, Ian Burton, said: “I’m really pleased that the National Orchestra for All is coming to Nottingham. Their work is inspirational in enabling young musicians with significant challenges to engage in orchestral music making and there is real synergy between their approach and that of the music hub here in Nottingham. Their music making is joyous – do go to hear it if you can!”

Free tickets are available to book via Eventbrite and to discuss any queries or access needs, please contact NOFA Programme Manager, Paula, via email at paula.morgan@orchestrasforall.org.

On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, our sincere gratitude goes out to our individual donors and loyal funders – Arts Council England, Youth Music, Association of British Orchestras, The Michael Tippett Musical Foundation, The Foyle Foundation, The Radcliffe Trust, Finzi Trust and The Samuel Gardner Memorial Trust – for making this concert possible.

Do spread the word, share the news with your network and we hope to see you there!

Book your free tickets via Eventbrite >