From performing alongside professional orchestras to composing with internationally renowned musicians, thousands of children and young people have enjoyed unforgettable musical experiences this academic year thanks to West Sussex Music’s growing network of national and local partners and through the Sussex Music Hub consortium partnership with Create Music (Brighton Dome & Festival Ltd).
Working with leading arts organisations alongside community music groups, West Sussex Music has continued to expand the opportunities available to young people across the county, ensuring that music education extends far beyond the classroom.
Throughout the year, collaborations with organisations including the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), London Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO), Glyndebourne, Chichester Festival Theatre have given young musicians the chance to work with professional performers, develop new skills and experience music-making at the highest level.
Young instrumentalists rehearsed side-by-side with members of the London Philharmonic Orchestra during its Junior Artists Overture Day, while pupils in Crawley schools composed and performed original music through a partnership with Glyndebourne, culminating in performances alongside members of the Glyndebourne Chorus and Sinfonia. Workshops with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra inspired children through creative music-making.
Alongside these nationally recognised organisations, West Sussex Music has also worked with an incredible network of local partners whose expertise has enriched music education in schools and communities. These include Ovation, Kidenza, Worthing Symphony Orchestra, Children’s Concerts, Beat Goes On, Rok Skool, Education & Bass, Ensemble Reza, NextGen Music, and singing specialist Emily Barden, each bringing their own unique skills and creative experiences to children and young people across West Sussex.
The partnerships have supported everything from orchestral and vocal projects to DJing, music production, songwriting, live music performances, inclusive music-making and curriculum enrichment, ensuring that young people of all ages, abilities and musical interests have been able to discover the joy of making music.
James Underwood, Chief Executive of West Sussex Music said:
“Music has the power to inspire, connect and transform lives, and our partnerships are central to making that happen. By working with exceptional organisations, both nationally and locally, we’re able to offer experiences that simply wouldn’t be possible on our own.”
He added, “Whether a child is performing alongside a professional orchestra, writing their own music, discovering opera for the first time or taking part in an inclusive community project, every partnership helps us open new doors and broaden horizons.”
The breadth of partnership working reflects West Sussex Music’s commitment to ensuring every child and young person has access to high-quality musical experiences, regardless of their background or previous experience. Together, these collaborations have enabled thousands of young people to develop confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of music.
As preparations begin for the new academic year, West Sussex Music is looking forward to building on these successful relationships while developing new partnerships that will continue to inspire the next generation of musicians across the county.
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