Middlesbrough Open Orchestra

A group of school pupils in uniforms and young people in white t-shirts sitting in a circle with some teachers. A girl is sat playing cello in the centre of the circle.

Weekly at Middlesbrough Town Hall

The Middlesbrough Open Orchestra is a collaboration between Musinc, Beverley School, Priory Woods School and Tees Valley Music Education Hub. Students from Beverley School and Priory Woods School have weekly music sessions in school as well as coming together to play as an Orchestra at Middlesbrough Town Hall.

The young people play music from a wide range of genres, including classical, contemporary and pop, but particularly enjoy creating soundscapes.

N turned 18 on a Friday of this year, the day we rehearse as a full ensemble at Middlesbrough Town Hall. He told the school music teacher and myself that if it was not for Open Orchestras rehearsal, he would have not come into school on his birthday, saying “music makes me feel free”. The effects of this project are palpable and profound.

School Teacher at Priory Woods School

N turned 18 on a Friday of this year, the day we rehearse as a full ensemble at Middlesbrough Town Hall. He told the school music teacher and myself that if it was not for Open Orchestras rehearsal, he would have not come into school on his birthday, saying “music makes me feel free”. The effects of this project are palpable and profound.

School Teacher at Priory Woods School

About Open Orchestras

Open Orchestras is behind the largest community of inclusive ensembles in the UK, in partnership with Music Education Hubs and special schools. The award-winning, groundbreaking programme makes learning an instrument and playing with others – independently, expressively and in real time – accessible to all 8-18 year-old disabled students.

You can find out more about the programme on the Open Orchestras website.