The impact that ‘Gloucestershire Music’ has made on the education of musicians across the county cannot be underestimated.

‘Gloucestershire Music’ organises county youth orchestras, jazz groups, string ensembles, bands and choirs. Many groups have performed at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and represented Gloucestershire at national music festivals and toured abroad.

With music centres in Gloucester, Stroud and the Forest of Dean the music education service offers opportunities for both children and adults to perfect their musical skills.

Steve Legge, Extended Learning & Provisions Manager at ‘Gloucestershire Music’, says the work that the company does is of tremendous benefit to the musicians of Gloucestershire. He said: “We have 16 ensembles located across the county that get together every week, which include three music centres that meet on a Saturday morning.

“We have free beginner ensemble sessions for people who are just starting out playing an instrument. These beginners will then go on to join one of our county ensembles or into our adult music programmes.

“Our aim is to provide high quality, accessible and enjoyable musical experiences for children and adults. Our team is passionate about music education and making a difference to people’s lives through the power of music. Whether playing an instrument or singing as a hobby or a career path choice we have something to offer everyone.

“Music is a formal discipline, there’s similarities with sport – the harder you work and the more dedicated you are the better you become. You find out quite a lot about yourself having that discipline and dedication to learn an instrument.”

Members of ‘Gloucestershire Music’ have gone on to achieve significant success in their chosen musical careers, something Steve is particularly proud of. He added: “We have some extremely good musical groups that have received national recognition and national success.

“For students to have that on their doorstep has been hugely beneficial to their development and has helped them go on to achieve great things in their careers.

“One thing that’s quite unique about ‘Gloucestershire Music’ is that we have an equally strong adult music education programme. Anyone who is over the age of 21 and no longer a part of our youth ensembles can benefit from being part of the senior ensembles.

“We’ve got adult brass bands, jazz bands and wind bands and we have strong links to other music groups across the county. There’s so many opportunities to perform at iconic locations in Gloucestershire.”