Grade-a-thon 2026
Our Grade-a-thon challenge is now live!
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
Before you sign up, take a look at the Grade-a-thon pack below, which includes 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.
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.
Instruments
Orchestral Strings: VIOLIN
Orchestral Strings: VIOLA
Orchestral Strings: CELLO
Orchestral Strings: BASS
Orchestral Strings: PEDAL HARP
Orchestral Woodwind: OBOE
Orchestral Woodwind: FLUTE
Orchestral Woodwind: CLARINET
Orchestral Woodwind: SAXOPHONE
Orchestral: BRASS
Orchestral: PERCUSSION
Orchestral Piano: HARPSICHORD
Orchestral Piano: ORGAN
Jazz: PIANO
Jazz Horns: TRUMPET, FLUGELHORN, TROMBONE, SAXOPHONE, FLUTE, CLARINET
Other Strings: GUITAR
Other Strings: NON PEDAL HARP
Other Woodwind: RECORDER
Other Brass: EUPHONIUM
Other Brass: Bb CORNET
Other Brass: Eb SOPRANO CORNET
Other Brass: FLUGEL
Other Percussion: DRUM KIT
Other voice: VOICE FOR MUSICAL THEATRE
How to Get Involved
- Fill in the form below to start your journey
- 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.
Open Day Timetable
