The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Music Education has released the State of the Nation report on music education, alongside the University of Sussex and the Incorporated Society of Musicians (ISM).

Music Education: State of the Nation draws together significant research from the Government’s own figures regarding the impact their flagship education policy, the English Baccalaureate (EBacc), on creative subjects, as well as academic research, surveys and analysis of current trends.

The report outlines a rapid and disturbing decline in music education. Music is now the fastest disappearing A-Level subject – dropping by 38% in just two years – while the English Baccalaureate focuses on English, maths and the sciences, discouraging students from taking arts subjects. Music teacher numbers have decreased by 1,000 in secondary schools between 2010 and 2017 (while comparatively maths teachers increased by 1,600 and English teachers by 900), and there is now less specialised music teacher training, and less job security for music teachers. Most worryingly, it is becoming more difficult for those from deprived backgrounds, and with special needs, to access music education.

The report states that a squeeze on funding, pressure on the curriculum due to accountability measures, and the declining status of music education, have all combined to push music education out of schools. It concludes that: “Music education in England is in crisis. The Government must act quickly to ensure music does not become the preserve of a privileged few.”

Dr Simon Procter, Director of Music Services for Nordoff Robbins, said:

“This is a deeply concerning report, showing the dire and declining state of music education in our schools. Music is an important and vital part of any curriculum – with significant research showing its importance for our wellbeing, our ability to think creatively, and to work collaboratively, not to mention for our diverse musical heritage across the UK – and yet it is becoming increasingly less accessible to children and young people, and especially to those from deprived backgrounds and with special educational needs.

“At Nordoff Robbins we believe it is the right of all children, regardless of background, ability or disability, to be able to participate in an accessible and high-quality music education. This is important for everyone, but especially for children and adults with special needs, for whom a tailored music education can offer life-changing support – helping them to fulfil both their musical and wider potentials, to be recognised for their abilities and to draw on music as a health resource throughout their lives.

“This squeeze on music education not only affects pupils currently in school, but also has a potentially devastating effect on our future workforce: with fewer students taking music at GCSE, A-Level, or even university level, there are fewer young people following their passion to become the musicians, music therapists and community musicians of tomorrow. This in turn means that fewer vulnerable and isolated people can access music as an intervention, and feel heard, communicated with, enabled and supported through music and music therapy. As music teaching retreats into only the most well-resourced schools, it will inevitably be available to a narrow and relatively privileged section of society: our workforce may then become less diverse and so less able to meet the needs of the people with whom we work across the UK.

“We call on the Government to reverse this worrying decline by investing meaningfully in music education: through recognising the importance of the creative subjects, making both qualified classroom music teaching and skilled instrumental teaching more accessible to all children, and engaging with music teachers at all levels of decision-making, as the frontline experts in bringing music to our children in schools. As music therapists, we stand by to assist where that’s helpful.”

Find out more and read the report here.

Music gave eighteen year old Nathan a way to express himself after he sustained a brain injury so severe that medics warned his family he may die.

Nathan was in a coma for two weeks after his accident and spent eighteen months in hospital, where he underwent several operations including a cranioplasty. During this time, he started working with Nordoff Robbins music therapist Jo, as part of his rehabilitation.  At first he was bed-bound, unable to do anything for himself and was only able to talk or sing in a whisper. Talking about Nathan, Jo said:

“Initially, Nathan was in isolation so he didn’t have a lot of company. I was able to go in with my sterilised guitar and my gloves and apron and we would have a little session at his bedside. We would enjoy making up songs together. At that time Nathan was having a lot of things done to him, but in music, he was able to take the lead. At every stage of his rehab, music could meet him where he was – and celebrate how far he’d come.”

Music and rap-loving Nathan has continued to work with Jo following his discharge from hospital. At first, he would use the cymbals or even the arm of his wheelchair to accompany Jo while she played the keyboard, which helped to develop his co-ordination and concentration skills. He has now progressed onto playing the djembe drum, the keyboard and rapping…and has even written a rap with Jo entitled “Nathan’s Journey” about what happened and his road to recovery.

Nathan has also been fundraising to ensure fellow patients at the Traumatic Brain Injury Service (TBIS) at Moriston Hospital in Swansea are able to benefit from music therapy and other rehabilitation services. At his 18th birthday party, he asked friends and families to put donations to support services into buckets in lieu of gifts. Speaking of Nathan’s generosity, Jo said:

“Nathan’s decision to donate all the fundraising he did at his 18th birthday party was incredibly touching for us as a service because it means we can carry on delivering rehab to people in a range of innovative ways. I wasn’t surprised because I have got to know Nathan over the last couple of years and I know he’s such a generous and positive person, I knew he’d want to help other people.”

Read more about music therapy and neurological disorders.

Scottish musician Tom Walker has released a new version of his hit single “Leave a Light On” in support of Nordoff Robbins!

The new version of the track, in which Tom is joined by sensational bagpipe band “The Red Hot Chilli Pipers,” quickly went viral after several live performances. After a public cry for the track to be released, Tom and the Chilli Pipers recorded the single and made the generous decision to donate all proceeds to benefit our music therapy work in Scotland. Speaking of the decision Tom said:

“Nordoff Robbins is the perfect charity to support with this single. The work they do changes the lives of people who find it hard to communicate in other ways and as a musician that really hits home with me. Plus, they kindly gave me my very first award in 2017 when I won UK Breakthrough at the Nordoff Robbins Scottish Music Awards, so thanks for that! I hope this new version can raise some money to support their fantastic team of music therapists across Scotland."

The Red Hot Chilli Pipers band leader Kevin MacDonald added:

“Nordoff Robbins is our chosen charity for 2019 so we’re delighted to be able to do this for them. We really hope that people enjoy the track and also support Tom with his Brits British Breakthrough nomination.”

We’re so grateful to Tom and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers for thier generosity, which will help us reach more vulnerable and isolated people with our life-changing music across Scotland. You can vote for Tom to win British Breakthrough Act at the Brits until 5pm tomorrow…we think he deserves a vote!

Download “Leave a Light On” feat. Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

Head of Research Craig Robertson blogs on the role of the arts in criminal justice and Arts Council England’s new publication on this subject:

It is a compelling report, which is especially timely for us at Nordoff Robbins, as we prepare for our upcoming workshop with the leading scholars in the world on music and prevention, which will be held in London in April 2019. For criminal justice, the report highlights the positive impact the arts can have for offenders as they seek to develop a new identity, and this is a theme we will be considering as we question how music might work to prevent unwanted health and social outcomes later in life rather than reacting to these outcomes after they occur. This is largely new, uncharted territory, and it will be the first time in the world that the question of music prevention has been asked in this context.

We look forward to welcoming Norma Daykin to our workshop, as one of the most prolific researchers in this field, and a key member of the Centre for the Arts as Wellbeing at the University of Winchester. Now Professor of Communication Sciences at the University of Tampere, Professor Daykin is one of the world’s leading scholars on the arts and health and wellbeing and her work is often referred to in this paper. Her studies have largely examined musical interventions that react to a situation, context or problem, but she is also one of the few scholars who have suggested how music might be used preventatively, especially within the criminal justice system. Other scholars that examine music in different sectors such as healthcare and political conflict, who are not mentioned in the Arts Council report, have also suggested how music might work as a preventative strategy.

The paper itself focuses on the criminal justice system and on healthcare and wellbeing. Music is heavily featured throughout but is skewed heavily towards the healthcare and wellbeing side, with considerably less evidence provided in the criminal justice section. The paper notes that impact assessment of cultural work in these sectors is often deeply flawed because projects are either not designed with “the rigour of pure research” or they are designed within the “hierarchy of evidence” preferred by government departments rather than the cultural sector. While this approach works well for medical trials or any scientific experiment, arts and culture do not operate in this fashion and this manner of assessment is not appropriate.  The cultural sector has generally responded to this challenge by either instrumentalising their work (singing improves literacy, for example), which lends itself to tangible evidence, or placing creative expression at the heart of what they do, which is much more difficult to assess in this manner. Impact has therefore been often assessed in terms set by the healthcare and criminal justice professions. There is, however, an increased call to accept qualitative evidence, such as forms of expression, memories and stories, to support cultural interventions.

Overall, this is a timely report that demonstrates a huge interest in the crossover between arts, health, wellbeing and criminal justice from researchers, practitioners and policy makers. It shows the evidence that is routinely demanded of service providers is often not fit for purpose, and that there is a need to challenge this at the policy level. Finally, the report indicates an appetite for an investigation into how arts and music can used preventatively in these fields as well as reactively as they are currently applied. 

Read the report here.

Eilidh, who has a life-limiting illness, takes part in music therapy at her children's hospice and says: “It is really exciting because I get to play lots of different instruments and learn new things. It makes me very happy."

Seven-year-old Eilidh has frequent hospital treatment and her health needs can be unpredictable. She attends school and a children’s hospice, but it is difficult for her family to find appropriate and fulfilling activities for Eilidh given her rare and complex condition.

However, music therapy has proved a big success! Throughout her one to one sessions, Eilidh’s music therapist Janet has seen a significant progress in her singing voice and rhthymic ability. In sessions, Eilidh has been able to express a range of feelings through music, from joy to anger, in a way she has not been able to before.

Speaking of how music therapy has helped Eilidh, her mum Rhona said:

“The music therapy sessions have proved a welcome distraction from everyday life and the many changes Eilidh has had to overcome in school, home and hospital life recently. As the sessions have progressed we have noticed that music therapy isn’t just about fun anymore but also how Eilidh has used it to express her emotions and frustrations about the changes in her life.

"After music therapy she is very excited initially but then she seems so relaxed and calm. I think as a parent I totally misunderstood the impact music therapy can have and it certainly has been an extremely positive experience for my daughter. She counts down the days until her next session and wants to let everyone know what she has been doing and learning.

Her music therapist Janet makes her feel very at ease and happy, as well as giving Eilidh the confidence to believe in herself and realise her potential. Janet gives Eilidh time and follows her lead in all that Eilidh wants to experience in music therapy."

Read more about music therapy in end of life care.

Nordoff Robbins is set to be the key Charity Partner for the Heavy Music Awards 2019!

After benefitting from the HMAs in 2018, this year we’ve been chosen as the dedicated charity, signifying the beginning of a more collaborative approach between us and the Heavy Music Awards. The third annual event will take place on Thursday 22nd August and will be a celebration of the best of the year across the heavy music landscape, recognising artists, events, photographers, designers, producers and more.

Following the announcement our Head of Partnerships Sandy Trappitt said:

“We are thrilled to have been chosen as the HMA19’s key charity partner. We were hugely appreciative of the support we received last year, and to now be working more closely with them to both promote our work and raise crucial funds to help us deliver our life-changing music therapy, is a massive step for us!

 We are very excited to start this journey, and together with HMA, help to bring the power of music to more people across the UK.”   

Dave Bradley, co-founder of the Heavy Music Awards added:

"We are excited and honoured to be partnering with the Nordoff Robbins team for HMA19 and playing our small part in telling the world about their vital and inspiring work.

 A huge part of the HMA philosophy centres on promoting heavy music as a force for positivity - and it means so much that the team at Nordoff Robbins not only recognise the importance of music as a force for good, but appreciate rock and metal as such profoundly affecting genres.

 We can't wait to get started on rolling out our plans for 2019."

 Find out more about the Heavy Music Awards.

Jo Jezard, a music therapist in our London team writes about Sadru, a beneficiary who Jo worked with during his treatment for cancer at University College Hospital, London. 

A cancer diagnosis at any stage of life is devastating, but for teenagers and young people living their lives to the fullest with their futures ahead of them, the news can be especially heartbreaking.  

Sadru is one of these young people. At the age of 18, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor and started a course of treatment at University College Hospital.  

For any teenager or young adult an illness like this can have an impact on their growing sense of self and identity. So many young people have described how their lives are ‘put on hold’ as they are forced to adapt to the way their lives have changed, and Sadru was no exception.   

The tumor and subsequent treatment Sadru received affected him in many ways. Along with the physical effects of the intensive chemo, the tumor itself also impacted Sadru’s left-eye, and caused problems with his balance and his cognitive ability. But what also suffered as a result was his mental health – he felt isolated and anxious.   

This is where Nordoff Robbins music therapy came into Sadru’s life. Whilst much of the treatment he was having in hospital was focused on the illness, music therapy supported him through his entire journey, supporting and celebrating his wellbeing, his identity, and crucially, focusing on what he could do, not what his illness had meant he couldn’t.  

I work at University College Hospital on the cancer ward delivering music therapy to young patients on a weekly basis, in different ways. But what was particularly useful for Sadru was joining a group session I run with other young patients being treated on the ward. Making music with other people offered Sadru an opportunity to socialise, where ‘normal’ social activity with friends had suffered, and a way to engage in something positive with people going through the same thing. He became a vital member of the group, always encouraging people to get involved and making people smile.  

Sadru's Journey

As Sadru progressed on his journey with his illness, so did the way in which we engaged in music together. We moved into song writing which gave him the space to be creative and express himself - he wrote about his experiences with cancer, using the music as a means of getting out all those emotions and frustrations he was feeling, out in the open.  

What struck me though was what was coming through his music; there was a real sense of celebration, growth, resilience and strength – he wanted to inspire others. This gave way to us creating a song together which Sadru decided to perform and record. The fact that he even had the confidence now to share his music with others, that he wanted to send such a positive message through music, made me incredibly proud of how far he had come.  

Sadru said:

“I wanted to shine a light on what I went through so other people can see it and appreciate what they have and to help them if they are going through what I went through. To say you are never, never alone, you never have nothing, even when you give up and you can’t do any more, just believe you can.” 

Following years of invasive and intensive treatment, Sadru moved on from active treatment and now comes in for monitoring and checkups. Sadru is still regaining his independence, but what music gave him was a platform for expression, an outlet for his feelings, and an opportunity to send a positive message to other young people on the ward, at a time when he, and they, needed it most.  

Here's Sadru's Song

On World Music Therapy Day, we asked some of our music therapists to explain what music therapy means to them.

Richard Bennet, who delivers music therapy sessions across London and the South East said:

“In music therapy we get to work with our knowledge, our care and our creativity. With our head, our heart and our hands. It takes all of me to be a music therapist, but it is undoubtedly worth it. The people we work with at Nordoff Robbins are often facing unimaginable life circumstances. Music creates a ladder to climb above the tribulations and complexities of our everyday lives. What greater privilege than to be the musician who holds that ladder in place for those who need it the most?"

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Joe Jezzard, who delivers many of his sessions to individuals facing serious illness or cancer said:

“Serious illness and social isolation often go hand-in-hand and whilst there are incredible ways of managing illness the associated isolation and loneliness can remain unaddressed. In music we can effectively foster experiences of meaningful connection and companionship, supporting a person’s overall wellbeing when facing serious illness.”

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Lucie Phillips, who delivers music therapy sessions in Wales said:

"To me, music therapy is about connection, interaction, journeying, providing a space to express and explore, and being listened to in a different way. It is a wonderful privilege to work within an art form that can connect with someone during a time when they are finding it difficult to connect with the rest of the world. And being able to offer that through a means of communication that doesn't rely on words is truly humbling and part of why I am so passionate about working as a music therapist."

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Anna Tyrell, who delivers music therapy sessions across the South West and South Wales said:

“Music therapy enables me to build relationships with people who might not communicate verbally, but are longing for connection with others. Sometimes words are too painful and music affords a safe way to interact and be playful; sometimes music lets a person say: “This is me! I have ideas and choices and can express, which I'm able to express through playing instrument.""As a music therapist, I work in wide range of settings, but every day brings challenge, wonder and above all, joy. It’s my dream job!"

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Janet McLachlan has been delivering music therapy in Scotland for the past sixteen years. Speaking of her work she said:

“One of the many joys of being a music therapist is the opportunity to support an amazing diversity of people every week. Each person we reach is unique, and music therapy enables their uniqueness to be fully expressed and celebrated. We get to witness extraordinary moments of creativity, humanity and strength. My work in children’s palliative care has taught me that music truly has a power to reach beyond illness. At the end of a child’s life, music therapy can offer hope, comfort and a vital ‘life-line’ of connection for both the child and their family. The word ’rewarding’ doesn’t quite do this work justice!"

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Fraser Moyle, who delivers music therapy in London and the South East said:

“Music is at the very heart of our lives; it brings people together through shared experiences and connect us in ways words cannot. Children with communication difficulties can find it hard to express themselves with words and engage with others around them. It is through music that we can offer them opportunities to play, sing, listen and respond to others. As a child at school said recently, ‘Today is music day!’ But to me, as a music therapist, every day is music day!”

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Luke delivers music therapy sessions in the North East and Yorkshire. Many of his sessions take place at a specialist centre for people living with an acquired brain injury. Speaking of his work he said:

“The thing I enjoy most is seeing what music therapy can bring to people living with brain injuries and the staff and families who support them. From tiny moments of connection to supporting people to perform, the moments where I see music truly helping are the times when I feel both proud and privileged to do the job I do.” 

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Thanks to our amazing supporters, our music therapists are delivering more music therapy sessions to vulnerable and isolated people than ever before. On World Music Therapy Day we want to thank everyone who has enabled us to reach people in need with the life-changing power of music.

The former music teacher of a talented French horn player who was tragically killed in 2015, raises almost £3000 for Nordoff Robbins in a memorial music concert.

Teacher Simon Davie was inspired to bring together the musical alumni of Cox Green School to perform their first ever reunion concert in memory of their much-loved friend, Bryony.

Accomplished French horn player and talented musician Bryony had just completed her first year studying music at the University of Sheffield when she was killed by a drink driver. Bryony aspired to become a music therapist after she graduated and her friends and family have been tirelessly fundraising for Nordoff Robbins in her memory since 2015.

Reflecting on Bryony’s character, Simon said: “Bryony was an incredible student, a once in a lifetime kind of friend, and an extremely talented musician, who hoped to one day work for Nordoff Robbins after completing her music degree at the University of Sheffield. Having spent the majority of her time at school in the music department, Bryony became a favourite of the teachers and students alike. The Cox Green music department was very much a family, with Bryony one of those at its core.”

Simon has been instrumental in the fundraising efforts undertaken by Bryony’s loved-ones over the past few years, with this concert being the latest of his incredible efforts! The musicians taking part in the concert were made up of former students who had studied at the school alongside Bryony.

The concert, which was attended by students, teachers, friends, and family was opened by the school’s jazz orchestra playing ‘September’ by Earth, Wind and Fire, followed by ‘Every Little Thing’ by Sting. Throughout the night the audience enjoyed a mixture of original songs, jazz classics and choral performances. Simon recalled a highlight of the evening being a rendition of the “Fanfare For St Edmundsbury,” performed by a trumpet trio made up of Simon, and friends of Bryony, Nick and Joy. Poignantly, Nick and Joy had originally played the fanfare alongside Bryony at their school leavers concert in 2014.

To end the special evening, the Cox Green School Chamber Choir reunited to sing a beautiful arrangement of ‘Fields of gold’ and a poignant acapella version of ‘Goodnight sweetheart.”

Simon said of the evening: “There was not a dry eye in the house as the concert drew to a close. The ticket sales and raffle, along with some incredible donations meant that a fantastic £2900 was raised for a brilliant charity, in memory of our wonderful Bryony.”

Thank you to Simon and to Bryony’s friends and family, for their incredible support of our life-changing music, which is helping us to ensure that people in need continue to benefit from the music therapy that Bryony so passionately believed in.

Charlotte has been in hospital since December last year, recovering from meningitis encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. Initially the condition affected the use of both of her arms and legs, her head control and her speech. It was challenging for her to find the right word to use in her head and when the words did come out, they were often disjointed. Yet, when music was re-introduced to Charlotte’s life after her initial five weeks in hospital, she found herself able to sing more fluidly than she could speak!

Read Charlotte’s account of how music therapy sessions with Alan have helped her on her road to recovery:

“That first day Alan came to see me in my room, I hadn’t even thought that I had anything to offer anymore. I was stuck in a situation and I didn’t think I could offer anything, never mind get anything out if it! I’d lost that sense of self. Music was a big part of my life before coming into hospital; going to festivals, gigs, and listening to it, but I’d stopped this in hospital and felt like I no longer related to it.

Coming into music therapy, I remember trying the keyboard and I didn’t feel stupid, I could hear the music; and whilst Alan supported me, I could hear myself doing things in time and it woke up the dancer inside me. I had musicality and it was still there. I didn’t think I’d be able to write a song. I’d been struggling with my speech and having a tremor - and this was impacting on things. I was finding this frustrating as I was struggling to find words in my head - and my words were disjointed. 

We got chatting about musicals and I found I was able to sing the words better than how I could speak them. I really enjoyed this; and the feeling of words, flowing out of my mouth, felt really good. When Alan suggested writing a song, I felt nervous because I’d never done it. I was looking forward to singing as it gave me a release, and I did find this easier than speaking.

I’ve enjoyed writing the song; it was the way I felt and it related fully to my experience. Yet at the same time I could sing it whilst also having some distance from it, in a way that it doesn’t make me overly emotional and sad.

The song has progressed and so have I along with it. I have become more positive throughout and this has been reflected in the mood, the lyrics and in the song itself. Writing it down, helped me put my feelings down objectively; creating something and not just writing it down for the sake of it. I like the song and am really proud of it, because it’s something that I didn’t think I’d be able to do. Regardless of whatever anybody says of it, it’s something I’ve made and I feel really proud, given my circumstances. I felt like I didn’t have anything to give, and to suddenly have something I’ve made is something to be really proud of. I bumped into another patient the other day and I got referred to as the lady who does the singing and I thought: ‘Yes, that’s who I am!’

On reflection, at home, I’ve never really been the singer, but I sing constantly - whatever I’m doing – and then when I got unwell, I never actually sang or listened to music for 5 weeks! I was alone with my own thoughts, feeling like I couldn’t actually get them out, due to my speech problem.

Music therapy has given me a sense of purpose and been consistent in my hospital stay, something just for me, that is completely different to the other therapies. Everything else is boiled down to my condition; and whilst the song has been to do with my illness, the music sessions haven’t been clinical, they’ve been creative and personal instead.”

Each one of our beneficiaries is unique, as is the music therapy they receive. We wanted to take the opportunity to share with you some of the many ways that music therapy helps so many different people. 

Simon Proctor, Director of Music Services at Nordoff Robbins.

"Music therapy is able to give a voice to the voiceless, it musically includes people who are socially excluded, and gives people labelled 'ill' or 'disabled' an experience of their own wellness and ability" 

Here are five Stories

Barbara became depressed at just four years old when she went into foster care

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Music therapy is there to help Barbara with the trauma of separation from her siblings and with the changes brought by mving into foster care. 

Barbara says, "when I have bad memories, I play music instruments. Then all the bad memories go into the instruments and I don't have them inside me anymore"
Read Barbara's story

Gareth suffered a stroke at 47 and finds it hard to speak, yet can sing whole verses of 'Love Me Tender' with his music therapist

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After suffering a stroke on holiday in 2012, language is now very difficult for Gareth and he gets fatigued easily, making him withdrawn and uncommunicative.

Music therapy enables him to engage meaningfully again, even singing along with his wife in his sessions
Read Gareth's story here

Omolara is a teenager with severe learning difficulties and physical disabilities, but now sings solos in her school show

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Omolara is non-verbal, finding it challenging to communicate and be properly understood. Music therapy offers her a place to be listened to and valued, giving her the confidence to fulfil her potential
Watch how much Omolara shines in music therapy 

Sadru was diagnosed with cancer at just 18 years old, yet wrote an uplifting song called 'Staying Alive'

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Through music therapy, Sadru was able to write about his experiences with cancer, using music as a means of expressing the emotions and frustrations he was feeling.

As Sadru says, "I wanted to shine a light on what I went through so other people can see it and appreciate what they have, and to help them if they are going through what I went through"
Listen to Sadru's inspiring song 

Refugees who have experienced extreme trauma, find relief in music therapy

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The experiences of imprisonment and torture some refugees have faced has left many of them traumatised and isolated.

Music therapy provides them a release from their anxiety, offering them an outlet to express what they're feeling. 
Hear a story here from Toni, our music therapist 

Head of Scotland Angus Nelson writes on the current state of music education in Scotland, highlighted in the newly published What’s Going on Now? research report:

What’s Going on Now? is a major examination of music education in Scotland, commissioned by Creative Scotland and conducted by the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS), reporting to the Music Education Partnership Group. The RCS report has found stark inequalities in young people’s ability to access music, with a widening equity gap between the more affluent and those living in poverty – and with 70% of students needing to contribute to the cost of learning an instrument at school.

Given recent events, the report launch at Thorntree Primary School in Glasgow’s East End was particularly poignant. Earlier this year we saw Moray Council try to impose an 85% increase on musical instrument tuition fees in schools – and in Midlothian, the council tried to end tuition altogether. The latter saw a mass demonstration outside council chambers in Dalkeith by concerned parents, students and music teachers. The decision in Midlothian was averted but this won’t be the last we hear of this.

As a result of significantly reduced funding, local authorities and schools are struggling to make ends meet and having to make extremely tough choices. The report found significant variation in music instrument tuition across local authorities, suggesting that there is unmet demand for over 100,000 pupils. It also stated that while parents and carers know the value of music, it is often devalued as an integral part of a rounded learning experience, and treated as a secondary subject.

The report goes on to explicitly emphasise that the value children get from music far exceeds simply learning about music. The social power of music is something we can all attest to and it can also be an important means of combatting social exclusion.

At Nordoff Robbins we train skilled musicians as therapists via our two-year Master of Music Therapy programme. Through music therapy we can have a life-changing effect for our beneficiaries – combatting isolation or overcoming limitations associated with illness, disability or trauma. Without access to a skilled and diverse workforce, the services we provide to pupils with special educational needs in mainstream and specialist schools would not be possible.

We at Nordoff Robbins welcome the report’s key recommendations. It is vitally important that we increase the profile of music, highlight the opportunities available as a result of studying music, and significantly reduce the inequality gap in children accessing music provision. Music making is part and parcel of the way all children learn about the world around them and develop new skills. By doing so we enrich the lives of children, families and broader communities.

Nordoff Robbins in Scotland would be more than happy to work with the Music Education Partnership Group at a local, regional, or national level to help implement all the recommendations proposed in the report – especially in engaging with the full range of young people. Our work brings us into contact with a broad range of organisations, people and institutions who will all advocate the importance of music in education.

Scottish musicians have a strong tradition of performing, writing and producing a diverse range of music and Scotland punches above it weight in terms of contribution to the UK music industry. As a country it is widely accepted that we have the potential to be a world leader in music education. It would be terrible to see this dissipate as a consequence of short-term planning and a lack of forward thinking.

Soundwaves Art Foundation collaborates with Fleetwood Mac to create unique artwork to support Nordoff Robbins!

Soundwaves Art Foundation is a non-profit organisation that produces limited edition artwork, which is created by digitally manipulating, shaping and colouring sound waves generated in the studio recording of legendary songs. The prints are then signed by the collaborating musicians and sold on to benefit charities around the world. 

The work of the foundation, which has been running for twelve years, is made possible by musicians who give their time to sign artwork that benefits incredible causes. Previously, the foundation has worked with the likes of Pink Floyd, Paul McCartney, Muse, Arctic Monkeys, The Clash, George Michael and many more.

Tim Wakefield, the visionary artist behind the Soundwaves Art Foundation said: “We have long been supporters of Nordoff Robbins and the great work they do helping people with music therapy. We’re thrilled to now be partnering with the charity and supporting their work through the proceeds of the Fleetwood Mac prints.”

Sandy Trappitt, Head of Partnerships at Nordoff Robbins added: “We’d like to say a huge thank you to Tim Wakefield and the Soundwaves Art Foundation for choosing to support Nordoff Robbins with the proceeds from their amazing Fleetwood Mac prints. As organisations, we both work with incredible musicians and artists, making this a partnership made in music heaven!”

Check out the unique and limited edition artwork on the Soundwaves Art Foundation website.

We're really excited to say that The Staks Band, feturing Steve Overland, are playing a gig with legendary special guest, Lulu - to raise funds for our life-changing music therapy!

The band will be playing on Thursday 28 March at Subterania in London. Tickets are still available from See Tickets here so don't miss out on what's set to be an incredible evening of music. 

Date/Time:

28 March, 7.30pm

Venue:

Subterania, London

One year ago today, on Wednesday 21 March 2018, music legend Sting officially opened our music therapy centre in the North East. On the day, Sting was joined by Ricky Wilson and Nick ‘Peanut’ Baines of the Kaiser Chiefs to celebrate the opening. The bespoke centre was built through the generous support we received from the Graham Wylie Foundation, and we would like to thank Graham Wylie and the Foundation’s CEO, Angie Jenkinson.

Graham Wylie said: “Happy first birthday to the music therapy centre. With my office being so close, I’ve been able to watch the centre develop and see the children coming and going, receiving their music therapy and it makes me very proud indeed.”

The centre, at the former Matron’s Lodge on the site of the former Newcastle’s Fleming Hospital is being run by our team of Nordoff Robbins music therapists, enabling people across the North East to access our music services.

At the centre opening Sting said "I am the perfect example of the effectiveness of music therapy, I say this because without music I am not sure of what my life would be like." One year on from the opening, he echoed these thoughts saying: “Happy First Birthday to the Newcastle Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy Centre! I had a wonderful day there last year opening the centre with a very inspiring kids choir entertaining us.”

The centre started delivering music therapy in April of last year, and since then has welcomed people from across the region, who are now able to access the service free-of-charge, to help support and improve their wellbeing through the skilled use of music.

One of the individuals who we’ve been able to reach through the Newcastle centre is David, whose carer said:

"Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy is the highlight of David's, and our, week. Despite his complex, multiple disabilities he seems to anticipate the day he attends the centre and chuckles for hours afterwards having enjoyed the music therapy session. There is very little that he can access in the wider community, so having music therapy in Newcastle has helped improve the quality of life of our entire family…Happy Birthday Newcastle Nordoff Robbins, and many thanks!”

Another family spoke about the positive impact of being able to access music therapy at the centre saying:

“Music therapy has raised Jasmine’s self-esteem immensely, she’s given choices, which is something children with disabilities don’t often have.”

As well as enabling us to reach more children and families in the north east with our music therapy services, we’ve been able to use the centre to deliver short courses and training sessions. We’re also incredibly excited by the prospect (subject to validation/HCPC approval) of starting to deliver our Master of Music Therapy training programme from the Newcastle centre later this year.

Marking the first birthday of the Newcastle centre, Nordoff Robbins’ CEO Julie Whelan said: 

“Our vision as a charity is a world where music therapy is available to all those who need it, and with our Newcastle centre we’ve been able to take significant steps towards making that vision a reality. We’re incredibly grateful to the Graham Wylie Foundation for funding and enabling our work at the centre, and to everyone involved in establishing the centre over the past year. We look forward to the years ahead at the centre, and to reaching even more people with life-changing music therapy.”

In just under six weeks, Lucie is taking on the London Marathon in support of our life-changing music. Lucie will be running 26.2 miles and, as if that wasn’t a big enough undertaking, the marathon also falls on her birthday! We spoke to Lucie about what inspired her to take on the challenge, and what’s motivating her through the long hours of training. Here’s what she said:

What inspired you to take on the London Marathon in support of Nordoff Robbins?

I sing for Rock Choir, one of Nordoff Robbins charity partners, and I love it! I've always been a secret singer but never had the confidence to join a choir before I joined. I find singing is a massive release for me…it doesn't matter what sort of a day I've had, I will never miss choir as I know after singing there each week, and meeting up with my fellow “Rockies,” I’ll be on a high when I leave.

Last year at Rock Choir, we had what we call the “Big Sing” in Southampton. Sandy from Nordoff Robbins gave a presentation to us about music therapy and we were shown videos of two individuals who had been helped by Nordoff Robbins’ music therapy. One of the videos featured a little boy living with autism – I thought his story was amazing and I’d love to meet him and his brave mum. I have an old school friend whose son has severe autism, and if I can help raise funds for Nordoff Robbins to help continue the amazing work with children living with autism, then of course I will.

The second video we were shown featured a lady living with dementia. My dad had dementia and I lost him fifteen years ago. He was everything to me and he absolutely loved music…I remember dancing on his feet as a child to Don Williams and us singing along to songs from “The Jungle book.” I so wish that we had known about music therapy when he was ill. The difference it could have made to him, and to us, would have been massive. Dementia is such an awful disease, not just for the individual but for the family of the person living with it too. I would give anything to have just five minutes back with my dad to play him Don Williams just for one last time…I think he would have loved it.

After seeing the presentation I just felt compelled to reach out and see what I could do to support Nordoff Robbins to help more people through music therapy.  The marathon is actually on my birthday so it feels like it's meant to be!

What motivates you during your training runs?

Last week I ran my longest training run - it was bitterly cold and blustery but I hold in my mind the people who I know will be helped by the music therapy, and the difference I know the charity will make to people. I also find running really good for me mentally and just like singing, it's a release for me. It’s something I do that I totally immerse myself in and nothing else matters whilst I'm doing it.

What does music mean to you?

I love music as it's a way of relaxing and having fun. I always have music on and find it very therapeutic. I have a friend that lives in the United States and when one of us has had a bad day, we skype each other, put on our favourite bit of music, and just take five minutes to dance around our kitchens! It has the best effect - we laugh and then all is okay with the world and we’re able to get on with the task in hand that felt impossible just five minutes before.

What would you say to someone thinking of taking on a challenge to support Nordoff Robbins?

If you’re thinking of doing a challenge for Nordoff Robbins - do it! You will love it…and what’s more you’ll be making a big difference!

If you're feeling inspired, why not check out some of our amazing challenge events!

Our Summer School offers professional music therapists from around the world the opportunity to engage with key aspects of the Nordoff Robbins approach and share their practice. Find out more:

The annual four day Nordoff Robbins Summer School, open to music therapists from around the world, will take place from 22nd – 25th July 2019. It will be held in our London Centre, the world’s largest dedicated music therapy centre which is a focal point for music therapy worldwide. The Summer School gives music therapists a chance to develop their musical awareness and creativity, to discuss their own work, and to learn about the principles of the Nordoff Robbins approach to music therapy. It’s run by a range of experienced Nordoff Robbins music therapists and researchers, and is a lively and active event, full of music making, discussion and sharing of points of view.

Here’s what previous participants have said about the energy and variety of the Summer School:

“It was a fantastic course and I particularly valued the reflective practice and opportunities to make music with others. The tutors were excellent in the approach, knowledge and encouragement to 'have a go.’ Thank you!”

“The combination of therapy theory and praxis / practical parts and practical exercises and experiences during reflecting group was eye opening.”

“All of the presenters were so incredibly passionate about what they do, so excited and so enthusiastic, just awesome!”

Find out more: https://www.nordoff-robbins.org.uk/short-courses

Music therapy

Music therapy is a specialist use of music that aims to facilitate physical and emotional wellbeing, and to promote the development and retention of key communication skills. A wide range of instruments can be used in music therapy, including the voice, and the music created is often improvised. 

What makes Nordoff Robbins music therapy so powerful is the ability to create a connection with beneficiaries that has a true purpose.  For many of the people we work with, physical or neurological challenges mean that attaining this meaningful connection can be incredibly difficult, and music therapy provides them with a way of achieving this through music. 

Increasingly, our therapists are exploring opportunties brought my electronic music and technology, as it offers such a wide scope for different forms of music making. People with very limited movement are able to create complex music, often with just a few finger taps. 

Luke Wilson, one of our music therapists based in Yorkshire tells us, 

"For people with physical impairments, you can take what might be a very small movement and make it into a gigantic sound, which is powerful and means a lot to that person because it can be so expressive"

Ewen's Story

Ewen is 18 years old and has dystonic cerebral palsy, a condition which reduces movement control and causes muscle spasms, which are sometime painful.

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Our music therapist, Francesca, shares Ewen's story with us:

Ewen was referred to music therapy to encourage his confidence, specifically by moving his arms and using his voice. Ewen was a bit unsure at the beginning of therapy, and quite teary during the first session.

However, he began to be more at ease with and responsive to the music, especially when listening to the acoustic guitar.  When I introduced him to ThumbJam on iPad, Ewen’s attitude changed significantly. Thumbjam is an app that enables access to over 40 high-quality real instruments multi-sampled, hundreds of included scales that allowed him to explore different styles of music from rock to classical.  

Every session I set up the iPad using a special mount that would attach on his wheelchair, so that Ewen could be independent to play the app. After exploring different samples, he seemed to like the Rhodes piano and the electric guitar, which allowed him to play as a solo musician during music making. Ewen’s motivation and engagement in the sessions have greatly improved in a very short time through the use of this technology.

Reaching out to play the iPad is a great motivating factor for Ewen and he is showing great focus and intention while moving his arm. The sessions are filled with many fun moments and Ewen and I are both co-creators in the music making.

Bedroom 2 Dancefloor

We have published this story as part of our Bedroom 2 Dancefloor campaign, a new competition for Spring 2019 where we are searching for the UK's best upcoming DJs. There's more info on the competition at: bedroom2dancefloor.com

Hard Rock Hotel London and Nordoff Robbins have teamed up in a nationwide search for Britain's best Bedroom DJ. 

Launching today - 3 April 2019, we are delighted to have partnered with Hard Rock Hotel, London - the UK's most anticipated hotel opening, to launch Bedroom 2 Dancefloor - a nationwide search to find Britain’s best undiscovered DJs – fronted by British DJ, Sister Bliss, of iconic electronic dance music group, Faithless.

Sister Bliss, commented:

“Music has always been an inherent part of my life. Music – especially electronic music – is ingrained within me and allows me to express myself. That’s why it is an absolute pleasure to be a part of Nordoff Robbins and Hard Rock Hotel London’s Bedroom to Dancefloor Competition, helping to give aspiring young talent a platform to make their music mark.”

In a commitment to support budding talent and champion health and wellbeing within music, along with Hard Rock Hotel London, we are encouraging aspiring DJs to upload their own music mix to the Bedroom 2 Dancefloor website. The 15 most popular pieces will then be judged by an expert panel of electronic aficionados, who will select the top 5 finalists.

The champion will then be crowned according to public vote, with the chance to win the ultimate DJ experience, with prizes including:

• A two night stay at Hard Rock Hotel London in a Rock Royalty Suite
• The chance to perform live at one of Nordoff Robbins events
• A slot on Soho Radio
• S4 DJ controller by Native Instruments
• Online DJ course with Point Blank Music School
• And more…..

The winner will also have their music showcased and judged by some of the EDM industry’s finest critics.

In addition, online voters will also get the opportunity to win an incredible two night stay at the coveted central London property.

Visit Bedroom 2 Dancefloor to find our more and how to get involved

Our new partnership with Hard Rock Hotel London

Hard Rock Hotel London will open its doors to the public on 30 April 2019, celebrating the brand’s spiritual home of London. With approximately 900 stylish suites and rooms, the property will serve as a landmark within the London landscape, as well as a permanent home to celebrate the heritage of the musical and cultural legends that have previously stayed at the iconic Marble Arch location, including Bob Dylan, Madonna, Jimi Hendrix and Diana Ross. 

Ahead of the opening, Bedroom2Dancefloor unveils the new long term partnership between Nordoff Robbins and Hard Rock Hotel London, as the hotel’s official charity partner through Hard Rock’s charitable foundation Hard Rock Heals. Guests and locals alike will be offered the chance to support our life changing music through a variety of fundraising initiatives within the hotel.

Ian Fletcher, General Manager of Hard Rock Hotel London, said:

“Music runs through the veins of all Hard Rock Hotels and our new London hotel is no exception. As we put the finishing touches to the Hard Rock Hotel London, ahead of our launch on 30th April, we are very proud to be announcing this collaboration with Nordoff Robbins. Our first partnership activity, the ‘Bedroom to Dancefloor’ competition aims to give aspiring electronic music DJs a platform to share their passion.”

Find out more about Hard Rock Hotel London here: www.hrhlondon.com

Brian Dipple and members of Whittlebury Park Golf Club have raised an incredible amount for Nordoff Robbins!

After nominating us as their charity of the year, members of the golf club raised an amazing total of £4,130, including £1,000 of matched funding from Santander. Our CEO Julie Whelan went to the golf club last week, to thank the club for their incredible and generous fundraising, and to accept a cheque from Brian, who was the team’s captain, on behalf of Nordoff Robbins.

We’d like to say a massive thank you to Brian and all the members of the club for their amazing support, which will allow us to reach even more vulnerable and isolated people with life-changing music therapy!

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