Grade-a-thon 2026
Saffron Hall and Saffron Walden Symphony Orchestra launch the Grade-a-thon
We’re thrilled to launch an exciting new initiative in partnership with the Saffron Walden Symphony Orchestra (SWSO): our first ever Grade-a-thon!
What is a Grade-a-thon?
A Grade-a-thon is a creative, hands-on challenge that invites adults of all abilities to learn a new instrument — from scratch — and work towards a Grade 1 exam (or equivalent) within a set period.
Participants are encouraged to seek sponsorship (but this is not essential) from friends, family, or colleagues as they take on the joyful (and sometimes hilarious) journey of learning, practising and finally sitting their exam.
Originally introduced in other parts of the UK, Grade-a-thons combine musical learning with community fundraising. At Saffron Hall, any funds raised will support helping young people across Essex to access music and other creative opportunities.
Whether you’re an absolute beginner, a lapsed musician, part of a workplace team or a whole family taking on the challenge together, the Grade-a-thon is a brilliant way to learn something new, share music-making, and make a difference.
How it works
Once you sign up, you’ll receive your Grade-a-thon Information Pack, which will include everything you need to get started:
- A suggested timeline for your learning journey
- Details of an Open Day where you can try out different instruments before choosing one
- Links to online tutorials, resources, and local tutors
- Music sheets required for the Grade 1 exam (we can provide printed copies if needed)
- Tips for collecting sponsorship and spreading the word about your challenge.
- Please note the packs will not be sent out until early December.
Throughout the process, we’ll stay in touch with updates, encouragement and opportunities to connect with other Grade-a-thon participants. The project will culminate in a celebratory event at Saffron Hall, where participants can share their progress and achievements, and hopefully collect their Grade 1 certificate!
Please note: If you’d like to take part but feel unable to collect sponsorship, don’t let that stop you. We have a number of free exam spaces available to ensure that everyone who wants to learn an instrument and take their Grade 1 can do so. We can also provide exam sheet music, and in some cases may be able to help you borrow an instrument through our community partners.
How to Get Involved
- Register your interest via the online form below
- Choose your instrument — or come along to the Open Day on 17 Jan 2026 from 9.30- 1pm to find your perfect match
Businesses and community groups are especially welcome — we can offer partner packages including team check-ins and visits to your business or group.
Instrument Amnesty
Saturday 15 November, 9am–2pm
Saffron Building Society Community Link, Saffron Walden
Do you have a trumpet gathering dust in the loft, a violin you never quite mastered, or a keyboard hiding at the back of a cupboard? Bring it along to our Instrument Amnesty and help us give music a second life.
As part of our Grade-a-thon launch, we are hosting an Instrument Amnesty. All donated instruments will be collected by Essex Music Hub, checked, repaired if needed, and passed on to children and young people across Essex who might not otherwise have access to one.
The day will feature live music, tea and coffee, friendly faces and the chance to find out more about our Grade-a-thon!
