Impact stories
Impact stories from our students
At Chetham’s, we believe talent should never be limited by circumstance.
For many young musicians, the dream of a life in music feels out of reach. But with your help, we are turning “someday” into “today.” When you donate to our Bursary Fund, you aren’t just paying for lessons – you are providing a a community for young musicians and a pathway to a professional career.
MEET JAMES: A FUTURE ORCHESTRAL STAR
“Without funding, I wouldn’t be here.”
James’s journey started with a single free music lesson in primary school. That spark turned into a passion for the Tuba. When his teacher suggested he apply to Chetham’s, it wasn’t just about finding a new school—it was about finding a place where his ambition could grow.
As a Year 10 student, James now spends his days immersed in music. In a standard school setting, the time required to master an instrument like the Tuba is often sacrificed for a general curriculum. At Chetham’s, James has the “practice opportunities and the time to focus on musicianship” that are essential for his goal: becoming a professional orchestral player.
“A lot of musicians in this school wouldn’t be here without generous funding. It is really important for my musical development. I’m hoping to carry on doing music as a job.” – James, Year 10 Tubaist
MEET ANGELICA: CHORISTER, VIOLINIST, AND FUTURE ROYAL MARINE
“I’m so grateful to have received funding for Chetham’s because it’s created this opportunity to meet people from everywhere around the world.”
Angelica joined Chetham’s as a chorister in year four and has spent nearly her entire education here. Now a violinist nearing the end of her studies, she has big ambitions for the future. “Most of us musicians will go to conservatoire or uni (after school), but I want to join the Royal Marines and play in the Royal Marine Band. Once I become successful in that field I would love to come back (to Chetham’s) to talk about it.”
For Angelica, music has been a language that has bonded her to her classmates for so many years: “You don’t have to speak to same language because we all have that common language and love for music… it really brings a close-knit community together.” – Angelica, sixth form violinist
A GIFT THAT CHANGES A FAMILY
The impact of a Chetham’s education ripples far beyond the practice room. For parents, seeing their child’s passion validated and nurtured is a life-changing experience.
“All our local schools are no longer offering music as a subject… Chetham’s has enabled my children to follow their passion and to believe that a career in music is possible. Without support, they would not have been able to attend.” — A Chetham’s Parent
“(Chetham’s) has been life-changing for my daughter. She has gone from a very quiet and timid girl… to a wonderful young woman full of confidence. Without the Music and Dance Scheme support, sending her here would never have been more than a dream—it was simply out of reach.” — A Chetham’s Parent
WILL YOU SUPPORT A YOUNG MUSICIAN?
Every world-class soloist or orchestral player started exactly where James and Angelica did: with a dream and a need for a chance.
Your donation ensures that the UK’s most talented young people have access to a bespoke education, regardless of their financial background. Help us keep the music playing.
Help us turn dreams into reality.
