ORCHESTRAS FOR ALL GRADE2ATHON 2026
What is the Orchestras for All Grade2athon?
To celebrate 15 years of Orchestras for All, we’re inviting music-lovers of all kinds to take on the challenge to learn a brand new instrument and sit an ABRSM Grade Two exam, all while raising vital funds for our charity.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or dusting off an instrument you’ve never quite mastered, the Grade2athon is your chance to try something new, challenge yourself, and make an impact on the lives of young people across the UK.
Running in partnership with ABRSM from January to March 2026, participants will receive bespoke resources and support every step of the way.
Follow along with their journeys and support their challenges below:
Why are we running this campaign?
Music can be transformative for young people’s education, development and wellbeing – but not everyone feels included in or able to access musical opportunities. While we are so proud to have encouraged and inspired 8,000 young people, 35 schools and more than 300 teachers over the past year, there are many other young people who need OFA’s work.
“People should donate to Orchestras for All because it’s absolutely life-changing and it’s definitely changed my life. It’s shaped the way that I think and how I interact with music, especially orchestral music. Now, music is a huge part of my life and my identity.
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How can you help?
As a charity, we rely on donations to deliver programmes that empower young people from the most isolated, vulnerable and marginalised groups to access high quality music-making both in and out of schools.
Help us reach more young people and join our community of supporters by supporting our Grade2athon participants indiviudal campaigns.
Any donation, big or small, is very gratefully received, but we know that times are tough and not everyone is able to support our work financially. You can also help us by:
Following OFA on social media and sharing our campaign content
Telling your friends, family and colleagues about our charity
Subscribing to our newsletter – stay in the loop with our latest news and stories.
From all the team and brilliant young musicians at Orchestras for All – thank you.
Feeling inspired? It is not too late to sign up! Complete this short form to get started started:
How your donation will make a positive impact
At Orchestras for All, we are heavily reliant on charitable donations to deliver our three life-changing programmes:
National Orchestra for All
Our inclusive, non-auditioned national youth orchestra welcomes inspiring young people aged 11-18 from all across the UK, no matter what their personal circumstances might be. Members can make lifelong friends, boost their social and communication skills, improve their wellbeing and perform together seasonally in exciting arts venues nationwide.
Modulo Programme
Modulo kickstarts a fun, creative culture where young people from any background can thrive and enjoy making music with others – regardless of their ability, experience or what instrument they play. Music leaders are guided to set up ensembles within their school or local community and participants later gather to play at our Modulo Meets – a true OFA highlight!
Music Leadership Training
Through a combination of our online training modules (including conducting and arranging) and live webinars led by a host of industry experts, this continuing professional development (CPD) programme supports music leaders by sharing the vital tools, strategies and practical techniques they need to run exciting, inclusive ensembles of their own.
For further information about our 2026 Grade2athon please contact OFA’s Individual Giving and Campaigns Manager, Kezia Bienek, via email at kezia.bienek@orchestrasforall.org.
