Hampshire

‘Hampshire County Council's Music Service is a successful and valued business unit within the Education and Inclusion branch of the Children's Services Department of Hampshire County Council (HCC). It provides a comprehensive music education service to Hampshire schools and colleges and is proud to promote the highest quality learning opportunities ... Hampshire Music Service has been the Lead Partner of the Hampshire Music Education Hub since September 2012 ... Partnership working has always been a keystone of HMS’s work. In our role as lead partner we aim to strengthen the range and depth of partnership working across Hampshire, ensuring the best possible opportunities for young people, whatever their musical tastes and ambitions.‘

Founded 1966: ‘You do not have to be an organist or choir director to belong to the NHOA. Anyone who loves the organ and its music, whether a player or not, is welcome to join. NHOA arranges visits to interesting organs in our area and has biennial visits elsewhere in the UK. And there are social and educational events including “NHOA’s Ark” where small groups get together to play in an informal environment (normally one another’s homes) and discuss problems and solutions in a friendly way ... We are keen to support young people who are interested in the organ: to that extent we have a special fund that can help with bursaries and in other ways’.

‘The area and county ensembles are part of a network of 60 groups run by the Hampshire Music Service ... Being a member of a music group is an enriching and rewarding educational experience. Group playing or singing helps improve individual musical skills. It is also great fun and a good way to meet other young people with musical interests. They celebrate their achievements in many concerts, festivals and musical events throughout the year as well as take groups on residentials and tours to widen horizons and provide enriching experiences for all members. Voluntary committees support each ensemble with fundraising activities. Committee members are usually parents of current players. New volunteers are always very welcome.’