Saffron Music Live. Over 6,000 Young People. 73 Schools. One Extraordinary Year of Music.

The first follows recorder quartet Palisander during one of our in-school visits, part of a programme that will see professional musicians perform in 38 primary schools this year. These visits bring world-class artists directly into classrooms and school halls, creating unforgettable musical experiences where children learn, ask questions and engage with live performance up close.

Alongside Palisander, pupils have worked with musicians from Britten Sinfonia, folk duo Mishra, former Official Harpist to His Majesty The King Alis Huws, and a wide range of professional artists from across the music industry.

The second film captures the energy and excitement of one of our large-scale schools concerts, featuring acclaimed saxophonist, broadcaster and former BBC Young Musician finalist YolanDa Brown. Delivered in partnership with Greater Essex Music Hub, these concerts bring thousands of children together in major venues across the county to experience exceptional live music on a larger scale. This year, schools have also enjoyed performances from Jess Gillam and her ensemble, introducing young audiences to some of the UK's most inspiring musicians.

Together, these programmes ensure that children can experience live music in different ways — whether in their own school, in a concert hall, through a creative residency, or by taking part in performances themselves.

At the heart of all this work is a simple belief: every child should have the opportunity to experience high-quality live music, regardless of their background or where they live.
The impact of these experiences is clear in the feedback we receive from schools.

One teacher told us:
"The children left the concert in a tranquil state of awe. This duration would be extremely challenging behaviourally for some, however they were transfixed. They were eager to discuss what they had seen and heard."

For many pupils, these performances challenge perceptions about what music can be and what is possible for them. As one teacher observed:
"We have a lot of children now interested in taking their skills and fostering them further. The children were amazed that playing a recorder could go this far."

Another commented: "The quality was amazing. I think that was the best performance I have seen so far and it was something the children were really interested in. The children and staff found the concert a unique experience."

The response from children has been equally powerful. When asked to describe their experience in three words, they chose:

Amazing. Inspiring. Fun. Exciting. Mesmerising. Beautiful. Impressive.

We believe these moments matter. They spark curiosity, build confidence, encourage creativity and help young people discover talents and interests that can stay with them for life.

As we continue to expand our work across Essex, we remain committed to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of live music.

This work is only possible thanks to the support of our funders, donors, partners, schools and teachers. Together, we are helping thousands of young people across Essex discover the life-changing impact of live music. Thank you.