News

Why local parish and town councils matter
Post date: Friday, 29 September 2023 - 12:30pm

Jonathan Owen, Chief Executive of the National Association of Local Councils, introduces the organisation and explains the vital role parish and town councils can play in supporting communities to flourish. 

Did you know?

There are 10,000 parish and town councils in England collectively known as ‘local councils’ and around 700 in Wales. In England they represent 35million people, raising around £700mil through their small share of council tax, called the precept. Together with other income and resources they invest over £2bn in local communities.

Celebrating Unity and Diversity: The Hand in Hand Festival
Post date: Friday, 29 September 2023 - 12:17pm

Hand in Hand, the UK and Ireland’s LGBTQ+ biennial choral festival, set to take place in Bristol on 16-18 August 2024, is a celebration of music, diversity and community. Christian Wismann, Creative Director of Hand in Hand, invites members to get involved.

Music possesses a unique ability to transcend barriers, uniting people and nurturing a sense of belonging. Nowhere is this phenomenon more evident than in the Hand in Hand Festival, a distinctive biennial event that celebrates both the LGBTQ+ community and the potency of music.

Affordable and accessible repertoire with YOURACCOMPANIST
Post date: Friday, 29 September 2023 - 11:08am

Corporate member, YOURACCOMPANIST, introduces their mission, their library of downloadable piano accompaniments and their piano recording services. Helen Salgo, Director of the company, tell us more.


Photo: Helen Salgo, Director of YOURACCOMPANIST

Charity Commission changes to Annual returns
Post date: Thursday, 28 September 2023 - 2:51pm

The Charity Commission for England and Wales have made some changes to the questions asked as part of a charity’s annual return. These apply for annual returns being completed where the financial year end is 1 January 2023 or later. 

There are some new questions around finances and structure – which will mean groups need to provide extra information compared to the previous year, but we don’t think this will be problematic for most groups.

Making Music Awards 2023 shortlist announced
Post date: Wednesday, 27 September 2023 - 4:24pm

We are thrilled to announce the shortlisted nominees for the 2023 Making Music Awards, followed by a celebratory evening on Thursday 5 October where we announce the winners and honour the creativity and efforts of the leisure-time music community.

The awards celebrate Making Music's nearly 4,000 member groups and their activity, and the often unrecognised talent which helps the sector to flourish across the UK. Prizes range from promotion across Making Music’s networks to opportunities for other musical projects.

Public vote opens for the President’s Award
Post date: Tuesday, 26 September 2023 - 12:04pm

We’re delighted to open voting for the Making Music President’s Award to the public. Help us shout about the amazing volunteers in Making Music member groups

Making Music launches INCLUDE, a programme supporting leisure-time music groups in their inclusion aims
Post date: Friday, 22 September 2023 - 11:21am

Making Music, the UK’s association for leisure-time music groups, is delighted to introduce our new inclusion-focus programme Making Music: INCLUDE, funded by Arts Council England. 

Adopt a Music Creator blog: Harmonising past and present
Post date: Monday, 4 September 2023 - 10:29am

Music creator Charlotte Marlow reflects back on her work with the Newcastle-Under-Lyme Community Orchestra (NULCO) as they premiere their collaboration from Adopt a Music Creator 2020-21.

Music for Everyone celebrates 40th anniversary by showcasing women in music
Post date: Wednesday, 30 August 2023 - 4:11pm

Music for Everyone (MfE) has celebrated its 40th birthday this year, marking it with a celebratory music experience at the Albert Hall in Nottingham.

Founded as the Nottingham Choral Trust by Angela Kay MBE and hosting a single concert in 1983, MfE has grown considerably over the years to become a major arts organisation in the city and region, organising open access choirs and orchestras and inspiring people to make great music together.

Accessible music education with TiME
Post date: Wednesday, 30 August 2023 - 11:40am

Corporate member TiME is committed to promoting the use of music technology in education and taking down barriers to music education.

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