Orchestras Live

Orchestras Live is a pioneering national charity with over 50 years of experience, dedicated to democratizing access to high-quality live orchestral music for culturally under-served communities across England, especially in rural, coastal, urban, northern, midlands, and eastern regions facing geographic, social, or economic barriers. Established to counter elitist perceptions of orchestral music, its mission is to inspire, empower, and unite diverse audiences—regardless of age, background, or location—through bespoke, co-created programmes emphasizing artistic excellence, inclusion, diversity, community engagement, legacy-building, and sector development. As the UK's only specialist orchestral producer and collaborator, it bridges orchestras, promoters, local authorities, music hubs, and academic institutions to deliver sustainable, high-impact initiatives.

The charity funds collaborative projects broadening orchestral access, nurturing young and disadvantaged talent, commissioning new repertoire, and integrating music into health, wellbeing, social care, and education settings. Supported activities include live performances, skills-building workshops, community cohesion efforts, and capacity enhancement for partners, prioritizing measurable outcomes like improved confidence, health benefits, and repeat performances that leverage local investment.

Eligible partners are UK-registered charities, academic institutions, orchestras, local authorities, and established third-sector or statutory bodies with proven track records and co-investment capacity, operating in England—particularly under-served areas. Orchestras Live does not accept unsolicited applications, core funding, capital projects, or emergency requests; opportunities arise solely through invitation-only, negotiated partnerships without fixed deadlines or public rounds.

Typical grants range from £10,000 to £70,000 per project, tailored to multi-partner budgets, distinguishing Orchestras Live by its expertise in cost-effective touring, voluntary income maximization, and creating enduring inequalities-addressing legacies.