Making an impact: read Orchestras for All’s powerful new report

Building inclusive communities, one musical note at a time…

Another memorable year at Orchestras for All (OFA), another inspiring Impact Report – and our 2022-23 roundup might just be our best one yet.

In a world that often echoes with discord, we’ve been working tirelessly over the past year to become a driving force for positive social change by welcoming young people and music leaders from all across the UK – from London to Birmingham, Manchester to York – to our inclusive music-making activities.

We truly believe that the joy of group music-making should be experienced by all young people, from all walks of life – not to mention the associated benefits that come through playing music with others in an orchestra, which include boosting a young person’s confidence, developing their social skills, unlocking creative potential and building community, to name but a few.

In our latest Impact Report, we share key findings from OFA’s three barrier-smashing programmes: National Orchestra for All (NOFA), Modulo and Music Leadership Training (MLT), through which we aim to empower and energise young people and music leaders alike – regardless of their personal circumstances or the daily challenges they might be facing.

Trustees Beth White and Joelle Sogunro said: “This year, the number of NOFA members has doubled compared to last year, which is a testament to the growing influence and reach of our organisation. Through Modulo, we reached 613 young people nationwide, directly impacting their lives and fostering a sense of community through music making. Plus, an astounding 7,000 young people have been indirectly impacted through our MLT programme.”

Read more: 13 barrier-smashing highlights from Orchestras for All in 2023 >

Modulo participants play together at Cecil Sharp House in London, led by OFA’s Associate Conductor, Rocco.

The former NOFA members added: “We firmly believe in the power of youth voice and have taken significant strides towards championing it, so one of our key triumphs this year has been the development of youth leadership opportunities at OFA. As part of this, we handed over the Youth Board to current OFA Ambassador, Chloe Morgan, and welcomed her to the Board of Trustees. Chloe’s energy and fresh perspective has already made a positive impact on our decision-making processes.

“We also further invested in our wellbeing approach, ensuring that OFA’s programmes not only inspire creativity but also nurture the individual needs of every participant – making our initiatives even more inclusive and accessible, while opening up doors for diverse young minds to thrive.”

Read more: Meet National Orchestra for All musicians, Lola and Christian >

As well as outlining the steps we have taken to keep youth leadership and wellbeing at the forefront of OFA’s vital work, the Impact Report shares event highlights, heartwarming stories of personal growth and resilience from the young people who participate in our programmes, and sheds light on how we plan to strengthen the charity in future – from investing in our environmental responsibility to continuing our exciting transition as a new National Portfolio Organisation.

Alongside our commitment to providing high-quality music education and musical opportunities, building inclusive communities where each and every young person (and staff member) feels welcome and supported is what makes OFA so very special.

By fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration, we’re creating vibrant ensembles that reflect the rich tapestry of our society. During NOFA’s spring 2023 residential, we recorded a video of the young musicians creating a powerful improvised piece, titled ‘Strength in Numbers’, with composer and multi-instrumentalist, Joe Broughton. The video (watch above) is currently being considered in the Smiley Charity Film Awards 2024 and open to a public vote until midnight on 24th January 2024 – you can support us by casting your vote here!

We can’t wait to see what the future holds for OFA and through our latest Impact Report, we hope to demonstrate that when young people have access to a safe space in which they can come together to create music, it can be truly life-changing.

Please join us in breaking down musical barriers by reading our Impact Report below and taking a moment to share it with your network – let’s make a difference in 2024!

Orchestras for All seeks new headquarters – join the search!

As Orchestras for All (OFA) continues to expand and develop its reach and impact across the UK, the charity finds itself in an exciting new phase of growth and development.

We are now on the lookout for new headquarters that will provide much more to us than just office space; our new location could also be a hub for forging new partnerships, nurturing existing relationships and fostering creativity within the sectors of music education, mental health and wellbeing, youth leadership and engagement.

We invite you, our incredible network of supporters and followers, to join us on our search by sharing your expert insights and recommendations for where our new headquarters could be based.

A Modulo participant expertly conducting their ensemble

What are we looking for?

Our vision is a country where all young people have access to the joy and benefits of orchestral music making, regardless of the daily challenges they might be facing.

By relocating to a vibrant location that takes OFA’s strategy into consideration, we aim to amplify our charity’s impact, celebrate being truly national and strengthen our connections within the sectors we are so deeply passionate about.

We have now embraced a hybrid model of working and are based all across the UK, so our new headquarters will not merely offer us a physical space, it will also provide us with the opportunity to collaborate and innovate.

We are envisioning an area of the country where like-minded organisations and individuals can come together to share ideas, knowledge and resources. It should be a dynamic space, where music educators, mental health and wellbeing advocates, youth leaders and artists alike can join forces to create a positive ripple effect across the UK.

Anthony and the powerful National Orchestra for All (NOFA) trumpet section

We need your help!

We believe that the best suggestions often come from the participants of our programmes and the supporters who believe in our cause. Whether you’re a young person, teacher or tutor working with OFA, or someone who values the impact of music on young lives, your input is truly invaluable to us.

• Can you suggest a city or town that is well-known for its vibrant arts scene and/or commitment to young people?

• Is there a region in which the passion for music and wellbeing of young people seamlessly unite?

• Perhaps you have a personal connection to a place or organisation that you feel we should be teaming up with, to ensure our vision and mission become a reality?

We hope this callout will result in an exciting list of locations and partners that we can explore for our relocation, or give us food for thought about how we might engage with other brilliant organisations.

Orchestras for All Artistic director and conductor, Emma, leading the way with her violin

How to get involved

There are three key ways you can contribute:

1. Share your suggestions: Please complete the short questionnaire below, offering recommendations for where our new headquarters should be and explain why you think a particular place would be an ideal fit;

2. Spread the word: Encourage your friends, family and colleagues to participate. The more diverse and wide-ranging the suggestions, the better!

3. Engage in the conversation: Follow our social media updates and join the ongoing conversation about our potential new headquarters’ location. Your insights and perspectives are incredibly valuable.

Your recommendations will not only help to shape our future; they will also enable us to have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of young people nationwide.

We will research each and every recommendation, assessing their potential within the topics of strategic and partnership opportunity, accessibility, financial and environmental opportunity and impact, culture and values as well as participant and audience development.

Thank you for being part of our mission – stay tuned for updates and we can't wait to see where this collaborative effort takes us! Together, we can continue to smash down the barriers to music making that so many young people face every day.

Questionnaire deadline: 12pm on Thursday 28th of September

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:

Introducing the newest members of the Orchestras for All team

Spoiler alert: they’re all pretty darn amazing.

Over the past year, Orchestras for All (OFA) has continued to evolve as a charity and grown at rapid speed, reaching even more young people across the UK than ever before through its inclusive music-making programmes.

To support this demand and further develop OFA’s musical offering, its team has welcomed 10 inspiring ambassadors, who all started out on their journey as young musicians with National Orchestra for All. In these paid roles, ambassadors play a vital part in assisting the core team and championing OFA’s work across all programmes, while also boosting their skills and having the opportunity to focus on a specialty of their choice.

Joining them is OFA’s new Youth Leadership Coordinator, Elen, who will be creating and facilitating opportunities for young people – including current members, ambassadors and alumni – to be involved in the charity’s key decision-making, planning and delivery of work. We believe that young people are best-placed to tell us what they want and need, so it’s essential that their voices and opinions are heard, valued and actioned. Outside OFA, Elen is a member of the ABO board’s Musicians’ Advisory Council, which also ensures that the voices of orchestral musicians are heard at board and executive level.

Finally, OFA is pleased to welcome Sasha, who will be supporting the wellbeing of both staff and participants across the charity as Wellbeing Lead, alongside superb Associate Conductor, Rocco, barrier-smashing Programmes Coordinator, Jenny, and Production Manager, Chris, whose role is key to making our live events a success.

From Arsenal fans and filmmaking students to keen cellists and music-loving maestros, let’s meet the latest additions to the team…

Read more: National Orchestra for All’s barrier-smashing spring residential in pictures >

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Atse, Ambassador

Hi, my name is Atse and I’m an OFA Ambassador. I’ve been a part of OFA since 2014, when I joined as a NOFA member. As an Ambassador, my role is to help guide young people through the experience of being part of OFA, using my own knowledge of being a NOFA member.

I am also a member of the Youth Board, which is where we take the feedback of members and discuss how we can improve the OFA experience. Outside of OFA, I’m studying to be a music producer and sound engineer and I’m a big Arsenal fan.

Beau, Ambassador

Hello! I’m Beau and I’m an Ambassador for OFA. I’ve been with NOFA since 2016 and I’ve enjoyed every year I’ve been here. An ambassador helps young people feel more comfortable within OFA as we act as a bridge between staff and members as we were once members ourselves. 

Music has always been a big part of my life and I’m always doing something that has music. Outside of OFA, I love making my own music – OFA helped me gain the confidence to be able to do that. I’m also a filmmaking student in Brighton, specialising in production design, sound design and soundtracks for film. 

Chloe, Ambasssador and Trustee

I’m Chloe and I loved music from a young age – sitting in my Granny’s kitchen in Belfast, listening to my family have a trad session, I desperately wanted to join in. I felt then how music brought people together and created a feeling of community. Naturally I did the only reasonable thing… stole one of my uncle’s tin whistles and began to make a racket.

I then started learning the cello in school at age eight. There was very limited opportunity for ensemble playing and my idea of an orchestra was “serious and stuffy”. Joining National Orchestra for All in 2018 changed that entirely! There I felt that same sense of community but this time it was with 99 other young people that I’d only met three days prior! Most importantly, as an Ambassador and Trustee I’m looking forward to helping OFA achieve what the Youth Board likes to call… “world domination”!

Chris, Production Manager

Hi everyone, I’m Chris Tindall and I’m the Production Manager at Orchestras For All. My job is to make sure all the equipment, such as stands, chairs, power for guitars and so on, is set up and working for rehearsals. I also help with the lighting and sound for the recital evening.

I love working with musicians and have previously worked for lots of opera companies. The thing I’m most excited about with NOFA is hearing the orchestra play together for the first time! I also live in the North East of England, love cricket and am a trained umpire.

Elen, Youth Leadership Coordinator

I’m Elen and I am the Youth Leadership Coordinator at Orchestras For All. My role will be focused on amplifying youth voices and furthering the youth involvement in all areas of OFA. I have recently graduated from Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama but prior to this, I was a member of OFA’s National Orchestra For All. My experience with music education, especially conservatoire, has meant that I have experienced first-hand the inaccessibility of the music industry, but these experiences have only made me more passionate about OFA’s mission.

My time with OFA has given me an insight into the lives of young musicians from all walks of life and has truly shown me the value of music-making opportunities. I firmly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to make music regardless of their background or personal challenges, so I am incredibly excited to be a member of the OFA team and to be part of the positive changes they are making!

Grace, Ambassador

Hi everyone! My name is Grace and I’m one of the NOFA ambassadors. A bit about me – I’m a violinist and auditioning for a conservatoire in November, but I also play piano and like to sing. I love buying clothes from charity and thrift shops – you will often see me in brightly-coloured clothes! 

I’m very excited to meet NOFA’s new musicians in the summer – I’m sure it’ll be a fantastic week! 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! 

Haseeb, Ambassador

Hello everyone! I’m Haseeb, an OFA Ambassador. I have been with the organisation since 2015 and have loved every second (as you can probably tell as I’m still here). As one of the ambassadors and someone who only recently aged out of being a NOFA member, I essentially act as a bridge between members of OFA’s programmes and its staff.

I’ve also been a member of the Youth Board, so if you have an idea on how we could improve something, I would love to hear it and feed this back to the Board, who can take it further up the ladder. Outside of OFA, I've completed my A-Levels and I'm currently a Medical Engineering Apprentice at Leeds Teaching Hospitals.

Jenny, Programmes Coordinator

Hello! My name is Jenny and I’m the Programmes Coordinator for Orchestras for All. My role is new and was created because OFA’s programmes are reaching more people than ever before! I support the lovely Sam (Modulo and MLT Manager) and Paula (NOFA Manager) in the delivery of OFA’s three innovative programmes. Something I am particularly looking forward to is attending OFA events, meeting the young people involved and experiencing their incredible performances!

Music has been a part of my life since I started learning to play the violin aged eight. My favourite part of learning an instrument was playing in ensembles – particularly orchestras! If I hadn’t participated in orchestras while growing up, I wouldn’t have the skills, friendships and life experiences I am fortunate enough to have today. I am delighted to be joining the OFA team and contributing towards inclusive music-making opportunities in the UK.

Keefe, Ambassador

Hi, I’m Keefe and I come from London. Music has been a large part of my life for a long time now, ever since I started playing the piano in Year Three. I love it because although music can vary massively, it has always been a universal language for everyone. Music has always been a sort of safe place in my mind that I can retreat to when I’m nervous or overwhelmed, almost a sort of second language. I can't imagine a life without it now.

I’ve been with OFA for three years now (although it seems a lot longer than that!) and it has given me invaluable experience, many unforgettable memories and great friends. I’m absolutely honoured to be an Ambassador for OFA! Outside of music, my biggest interest is medicine and I’m aiming to become a doctor in the future. I will also never say no to a game of chess, although I’ll probably lose very quickly!

Nell, Ambassador

I’m Nell and I’ve enjoyed playing music since I was little, bouncing around between instruments until ultimately settling on the clarinet. I joined NOFA back in 2015 and they’ve yet to manage to get rid of me. OFA were the first to introduce me to the joys of playing with others, especially on a large scale. My hope as an Ambassador is that I can play a part (get it?) in helping the current generation to experience all the opportunities OFA has given me.

Outside of music, I study physics at university. I’m also always on the lookout for another sport to try; the current list includes trampolining, netball and gymnastics. I try to find the time to play in an orchestra but none of them ever quite match up to NOFA (we’re just that good!).

Noah, Ambassador

I’m Noah and I’ve been a part of OFA for nearly six years – and every year has been better than the last. Over the years, OFA has helped me to improve my confidence and musical ability. I can play things now that I thought were impossible for me to do. I have been playing double bass for the past eight years and thanks to OFA, I have no intention of stopping anytime soon. I have always had a passion for music as it allows me to imagine and create from my mind, something which I am very grateful to be able to do.

I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity of being an Ambassador as I would like to be able to give back to the orchestra and organisation that I have been a part of for so long. Outside of OFA, I enjoy programming – especially in the field of cyber security, as well as making robots and machines. I also enjoy outdoor sports like bouldering and kayaking.

Rocco, Associate Conductor

My name is Rocco and I am the Associate Conductor of Orchestras for All. I was born and raised in Tuscany, Italy, where I started playing the trumpet aged seven. I immediately fell in love with ensemble playing – that hasn't changed yet! I studied classical trumpet, jazz trumpet and music education, and have played in 1,500 concerts all over Europe, Asia and Oceania.

After a few years travelling around the world, I settled in North London, where I work for several music services. I truly enjoy seeing so many young musicians and colleagues every week. I conduct all sorts of musical styles (symphonic, jazz, big band, wind band, choir and brass band) and I love the challenges that this role is offering me every single time. It’s never-ending fun! I also love coffee, painting, cooking, reading and my dog Frank.

Sasha, Wellbeing Lead

Growing up, I was taken to a local brass band concert and my mum asked me what I would like to play. I vividly remember choosing the drum kit, which I think surprised even me as my mum and brother both played a brass instrument! Later on, I volunteered with a community theatre company in Toronto, where I learned about the different access points of music, before studying psychology at Goldsmiths, specialising in musical ability in children who are neurodivergent. We explored the positive sides of neurodiversity and I loved it!

I found my early 20s quite hard mentally, so started exploring different ways of looking after my wellbeing. Music, dancing, family, friends and being outside were all helpful for me during difficult times. After my dad was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, I also became an advocate for my family, keen to challenge systems that did not put the person receiving the care or support first. My dad shared all his music with me throughout this period and it held us together. Then, I found Orchestras for All. It showed me that there are places that value wellbeing completely. It makes me excited that I can use the skills and knowledge that I developed to contribute to creating spaces that support wellbeing.

Shannon, Ambassador

I’m Shannon and I joined NOFA in 2018. It changed my life as a musician – NOFA’s approach to music-making was different to anything else I’d experienced and made me realise just how much music could connect people. Since first picking it up in secondary school, my cello and I have been inseparable. I ended up studying music at college and I’m now studying Actor-Musicianship at a drama school.

I’m so excited to be joining the OFA team as an Ambassador and supporting their mission towards making music education more inclusive. I’ve been so inspired by the way OFA empowers young voices and by their commitment to making music accessible – giving me an opportunity that I otherwise wouldn’t have had. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Tashan, Ambassador

Hey! It’s Tashan here. I’ve been part of OFA for quite some time actually – it’s been seven years. As an Ambassador, I feel that it’s important to assist the core team to make sure all OFA courses, sessions and events run smoothly. I also believe that being an Ambassador puts me in a position to be the bridge between the staff and the young members of OFA, to gain insight on what the young members like and how these OFA courses can be improved for them in the future.

I’m just another guy who really likes music and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve grown to appreciate how much music touches people and brings them together. Outside of music, I’m also studying physics at university, which is another interest of mine. It’s challenging but it’s quite fun too.

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On behalf of everyone at Orchestras for All, we would like to thank our individual donors and funders for their kind generosity; without them, these opportunities to strengthen our team wouldn’t be possible.

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Keen to support aspiring young musicians across the UK? Please donate what you can:

National Orchestra for All’s barrier-smashing spring residential in pictures

“It’s energetic and a really good experience!”

National Orchestra for All’s summer extravaganza is just on the horizon and we couldn’t be more excited to reunite with this year’s diverse new cohort – but first, we wanted to share a few highlights from the ensemble’s energising spring residential.

In April, NOFA members travelled to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire from all four corners of the UK, with many of the young musicians being introduced to returning members of the ensemble for the first time and in many cases, quickly making lifelong friends.

The inclusive event was defined by powerful sectionals, rip-roaring full orchestra rehearsals and expert one-to-one tuition for this season’s eclectic repertoire, which includes ‘Ghost Town’ by The Specials, ‘Hornet’ and ‘Reflection’, taken from Christopher Larkin’s Hollow Knight video game soundtrack, the first movement of Florence Price’s stunning Symphony in E minor and a ‘Strength in Numbers’ collaboration with Birmingham-based composer and multi-instrumentalist, Joe Broughton, who runs the Conservatoire’s Folk Ensemble.

We also heard inspiring words from our ambassadors and a memorable series of performances during the recital evening (both moving and witty in equal measure). Plus, in true OFA style, there was plenty of focus on boosting wellbeing as well as fostering a happy, safe and collaborative environment, alongside opportunities for the young musicians to share their feedback and take ownership of their learning throughout.

In the words of new NOFA member, Jess: “I play the cello and this is my second day at NOFA. It’s a really good experience – it’s loud (but not too loud) and energetic. It’s a fun, friendship-building thing; you stay overnight and get to meet some really interesting people!”

Scroll down to view our barrier-smashing event gallery…

Read more: University of York’s spectacular concert hall hosts the Modulo Programme’s final meet of the spring >

On behalf of everyone at National Orchestra for All and the OFA team, we would like to thank our individual donors for their kind generosity; without them, this life-changing programme wouldn’t be possible.

We would also like to extend this thanks to our funders – including Clore Duffield Foundation, Three Monkies Trust, Austin Hope Pilkinton Trust, D'Oyly Carte Charitable Trust and Wingate Foundation. In addition, National Orchestra for All’s spring residential was the first course part-funded by NPO funding from Arts Council England and the Department for Education.

We’re making great strides in improving access to music for young people nationwide – please join our movement and together, let’s continue to make a positive impact!

Keen to help us provide musical activities to young people who might not otherwise have the opportunity? 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 >

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 >

‘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 >

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 >

‘If you have ADHD, don’t try to fit the neurotypical mould – work with yourself instead,’ says National Orchestra for All ambassador, Phoebe

“Find unique ways to make you a happier version of yourself.”

In the UK, an estimated 2.6 million people have ADHD – with 1.9 million of those being young people, giving a childhood incidence rate of five per cent.

Also known as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults worldwide and is typically associated with lack of focus, impulsivity and hyperactivity. There is no one cause; it is considered to be the result of both environmental and genetic factors, with the latter being around 70-80 per cent responsible.

An individual can present with one of three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or combined. Since it exists on a spectrum, everyone’s ADHD brain is different and so some people may require more support than others.

Despite the daily challenges people with ADHD often face, they are also creative problem solvers who thrive on variety and innovation as well as being capable of deep focus on tasks or hobbies that interest them. Famous musicians with ADHD, or thought to have had ADHD, include ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ composer, George Gershwin, pop singer-songwriter, Lily Allen, The Beatles star, John Lennon, and panel judge for The Voice UK, Will.i.am, to name but a few.

At Orchestras for All, we celebrate each and every one of the young people in our diverse, music-making family – this means championing members with ADHD as well as those who may be living with a physical disability, learning difficulty or other mental health condition. With ADHD Awareness Month celebrated nationwide this October, we caught up with National Orchestra for All (NOFA) ambassador and flautist, Phoebe, who has ADHD, to find out more.

Read more: 7 ways to support autistic musicians in your youth orchestra >

Phoebe (pictured left) supports the woodwind section at National Orchestra for All’s summer concert

Tell us what having ADHD means for you.

For me, having ADHD means that my brain just works a bit differently to other people’s and I experience the world in a slightly different way. I was diagnosed at 17 and it felt amazing to have an answer for why I was always a bit too loud and could never make myself finish schoolwork or any other tasks, even if I knew it was very important and needed to be done.

It also helped stop me from feeling like I was “lazy” or “didn’t try hard enough” – instead I could be a bit kinder to myself and start working with my ADHD brain, instead of trying to treat it like a neurotypical one and struggling.

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

How does it feel to be part of the inclusive National Orchestra for All (NOFA) family?

It feels absolutely amazing! My favourite thing about it is that even though I’m now an adult and staff member, the fact I may need a quiet space to chill out in during rehearsals or other events, or the fact that I can sometimes feel overwhelmed, is still recognised. I feel just as supported now by the team of orchestral and wellbeing tutors as when I was performing with NOFA (the UK’s only inclusive, non-auditioned national youth orchestra) as a young person.

I’ve been involved with NOFA for around six years – first as a flautist and now as an ambassador – and it’s been so special to watch so many young people learn and flourish. I just love to hear all their stories of what they’ve achieved both within and outside of the orchestra because they feel more confident and valued as a result of the incredible work we do.

Discover Orchestras for All’s three life-changing programmes >

“People with ADHD have things called “hyperfixations”, or special interests,” explains Phoebe.

What daily challenges have you faced?

My biggest struggles have definitely been organisation, motivation and emotional regulation. Organisation is very difficult for me as my brain thinks everything is very important, so I’ll spend as much time worrying about whether I need milk as I would completing schoolwork!

I also find it very difficult to start tasks that I don’t think are exciting enough, or mean I have to concentrate for a long time, which means I also push off things like schoolwork. One tip to work on this was to write “To-do” lists, however I usually think of more and more tasks to do until I end up with a long, overwhelming list that I don’t even want to start.

Read more: How Orchestras for All supports young people facing daily challenges >

Have you received any support to help with your ADHD?

I was very lucky to work with a lifestyle coach that focuses on people with ADHD, which gave me strategies like using a whiteboard or chalkboard to track my tasks, so I can see everything in front of me and it doesn’t suddenly become that long, overwhelming list. I can split it up into different days and move it around if I’m having a bad day.

I also struggle with sensory stimulation, especially noises, which is a bit ironic considering I study music! I use noise-cancelling headphones that I keep on my keys – they are quite small and subtle and mean that while I can still hear people speaking to me, they take the edge off loud noises that might upset me and allows me to keep doing the things I love!

At OFA, we believe that having ADHD is also your superpower! Do you have any hobbies that you feel are encouraged by your ADHD?

For me, ADHD means that I really love crafting! I like doing physical things like crochet, embroidery, sewing and whichever other interest I might have at the moment. People with ADHD have things called “hyperfixations”, which is basically a special interest that completely takes over our brain for a while.

These can last for days, weeks or months and can make it really difficult to think about anything else, which can be both a blessing and a curse! I’ve managed to make a whole cosplay prop in a night before just by hyperfocusing on it, but I also have a lot of other projects I’ve lost interest in – and promise myself I’ll get back to them one day! 

If you could share one message with others about ADHD, what would it be?

If I had to pick one thing, it would be this: if you have ADHD, don’t try and fit yourself into the neurotypical mould. Work with yourself instead! If you need an orange scrunchie to play with just to be able to do your schoolwork or practice your musical instrument, go for it!

Don’t try to change how your brain works – instead, find unique ways to make you a happier version of yourself rather than what other people might want you to be.

To support other young musicians with ADHD like Phoebe, please donate today >

If you’re aged 11-16 and keen to join National Orchestra for All, please visit our programmes page for full details >

Please note: National Orchestra for All applications close at 10am on 7 November 2022.

For further information about ADHD, or if you have ADHD and would like to find the right support, the NHS and ADHD UK websites share useful resources.