Who we are
Founded as a national charity in 1998
Musical talent is everywhere but opportunity isn’t: family finances and other obstacles too often get in the way. We're here to change this in two key ways. We:
Support young musicians from low income families: with funding and other help.
Support music education: through training, advocacy and research.
For over 25 years, we’ve supported talented young people from low-income families, helping them to overcome financial and social obstacles. Whatever the genre, whatever the style, our strategically-targeted programmes help young musicians from across the UK to grow, flourish and fulfil their musical potential.
From funding instruments to lessons, to transport, whilst expanding their musical networks and giving them opportunities to perform, we do anything and everything we can to give holistic, tailor-made support to young people in need.
We offer bespoke, individual support for each young person’s musical progression. Our programmes not only sustain musical journeys, they also support others to identify and nurture talent wherever they find it.
At Young Sounds UK, we find potential and give musical talent a chance.
Our quality principles
Sustainable
Our organisational practices are designed to create a positive long-term impact on our people, programmes and planet.
Collaborative
We draw on the benefits of collaborative working to deliver activity, problem-solve, and support mutual goals, aiming to foster a sense of community among all we work with.
Person-centred
We acknowledge individual circumstances and needs as far as possible, across all organisational relationships.
Fair, open and honest
Our work represents our organisational integrity, promoting trust and aiming high, while encouraging realistic expectations.
Progressive
Our organisation continually evolves: we respond to sector needs, prioritise internal reflection and learning, and identify opportunities to create and lead new initiatives.
Empowering
Our work is designed to create opportunities to empower, support and encourage our participants, partners and colleagues.
How we help
We’re here to give the best help and support to young musicians as possible, inspiring them to not only succeed, but excel.
Our people
Young Sounds UK has a small staff team who all work remotely from home and care passionately about making access to music fairer.
Our heritage
The history of Young Sounds UK from our founding in 1998 to today.
Annual report
A look back at the previous year at Young Sounds UK including facts and figures.
Apply for financial support
Funding young talent UK-wide, through annual grants and tailor made help for individual musicians
Safeguarding policies and procedures
We believe that a child or young person should never experience abuse of any kind. We are committed to practice in a way that protects them.
Our Policies
Click the links below to find out more.