What do participating Modulos receive?

• Resources to get your Modulo started, including rehearsal plans, activity ideas and backing tracks.

• Unique arrangements and bespoke scores differentiated to suit all instruments and skill levels.

• Modulo Meet attendance – the opportunity to visit inspiring performance venues across the country and play as part of a large, inclusive ensemble

• A workshop at your school or hub, supported by members of our regional artistic partners, including the BBC Philharmonic and City of London Sinfonia.

• Music Leadership Training and CPD, online and face-to-face for all Modulo leaders.

• Bronze Arts Award support

• Youth Leadership opportunities for Modulo members.

• Bursaries (means-tested) to support programme costs and travel to Modulo Meets.

• Online and telephone support from the Orchestras for All team.

Who is the Modulo Programme for?

In short, all sorts, aged 11-18! Groups could include:

• Classroom ensembles, KS3, GCSE or BTEC-level, suitable for all students
• Small groups of beginner players
• Schools with no other music ensemble opportunities
• Modulos made up of mixed-skill level and instruments (think guitars, clarinets, keyboards, harmonicas and many more)
• Year 6 / Year 7 feeder school partnerships
• A community youth group with a wide range of musical experience

Who can lead a Modulo?

Anyone working in a state funded school, or a community group who is keen to start or develop an instrument ensemble for 11-18 year-olds. No prior conducting experience necessary and we offer support for leaders through our Music Leadership Training. Past Modulo leaders include:

• Trainee and early career classroom music teachers
• Experienced classroom music teachers and heads of department
• Instrumental teachers
• Music hub/service ensemble leaders
• Youth group leaders

What’s happening in Modulo 2023-24?

This season we’ll be exploring music and change – music for change, change in music – and any other links between these two words!

We are programming a wonderful selection of pieces from many different styles, countries and musical traditions. Young people have played a vital role in our repertoire selection this season – and our first set of pieces includes epic gaming music, a funky tune by pop legened, Stevie Wonder, and a stunning piece penned by female classical composer, Florence Price.

Modulo members will also have the opportunity to create new music together – we’ll share more on this soon!

What kind of music do Modulos play?

At Orchestras for All, we pride ourselves on performing a diverse range of music from different styles, countries and musical traditions, with young people at the heart of all the repertoire we choose.

We can’t wait to introduce you to the 2023-24 programme!

What are the Modulo Meets?

Modulo Meets are a chance for everyone participating in the programme to come together at an inspiring performance venue to rehearse the repertoire and participate in creative response workshops.

We work with an incredible and committed team of professional orchestral tutors to deliver Modulo. Our orchestral tutors were initially recruited in partnership with some of the best orchestras in the UK, including BBC Philharmonic, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and City of London Sinfonia.

When are the Modulo Meets for the 2023-24 season?

Summer Meets

1 July 2024 – Royal Academy of Music, London

3 July 2024 – Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Birmingham

4 July 2024 – University of York

11 July 2024 – Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester

How much does it cost?

We ask schools to contribute £250 to participate in our 12-month Modulo Programme. This £250 fee reflects less than 10 per cent of the actual cost per school to run the programme.

However, we’re aware this may be a barrier for some groups’ budgets. If you can’t contribute £250, this will not impact the success of your application. Instead, we’ll explore fundraising ideas with you (previous schools have put on concerts or cake sales to raise money!) and if necessary, waive the fee to take part.