Finding Joy, Confidence, and Connection Through Music

At The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation, we believe music should be accessible to everyone. That is why we are proud to have supported Sparkle Sheffield with a grant to bring sensory music sessions to their annual summer camp.

For many children, music is part of everyday life. But for neurodiverse children, those same spaces can feel overwhelming and out of reach. Sparkle Sheffield is changing that.

This summer, at their residential camp in the Peak District, our funding helped create something truly special. Children who might otherwise never feel comfortable in a music setting were able to experience it in a way that felt safe, inclusive, and entirely their own.

Sparkle Sheffield’s camp is more than just a getaway. It is a place where children are understood without explanation—where they can relax, be themselves, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. With over 85% of attendees being neurodivergent, every detail is shaped around care, patience, and acceptance.

Thanks to the grant, daily sensory music sessions became part of the experience.

In calm, small-group settings, children explored instruments, sound, and rhythm at their own pace. There was no pressure to join in—just the freedom to engage in a way that felt right.

“My child has never been able to cope with music groups before. Seeing them pick up an instrument and actually enjoy it without becoming overwhelmed was something I never thought we’d see.”

Some children joined straight away. Others took their time, building confidence step by step.

“There was no rush, no judgement—just understanding. That made all the difference.”

The sessions opened up new ways for children to connect—with themselves and with each other.

“It was amazing to see friendships forming through something as simple as making music together.”

Siblings were able to share in those experiences too.

“For once, both my children could join in together. That’s something we rarely get, and it meant everything to us.”

For parents and carers, the impact was deeply felt.

“You could see the difference straight away—calmer, happier, more open. It’s hard to put into words how much that means.”

We are incredibly proud that our grant helped make these moments possible.

This is what the power of music looks like: breaking down barriers, building confidence, and creating spaces where every child feels they belong.

Through their work, Sparkle Sheffield continues to shine a light on what inclusive, community-led support can achieve—and we are honoured to be part of that journey.

Supporting Theodora Children’s Charity in Sheffield

The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation is delighted to continue supporting the work of Theodora Children’s Charity through a new grant for their Giggle Doctor Programme at Sheffield Children’s Hospital

Following the success of our previous support, we are proud to award another grant towards a series of Giggle Doctor visits delivered as part of the charity’s Sheffield project. The funding will support visits from Dr Flowerpot and Dr Nic Nac, who bring music, laughter and comfort to children during hospital stays.

During the project, the Giggle Doctors spend time with children across a range of wards including intensive care, oncology, burns and emergency departments. Through singing, music, storytelling, gentle humour and imaginative play, they help create moments of joy and connection for children and their families during what can often be a difficult and frightening experience.

Our previous support demonstrated the powerful impact these visits can have — helping children feel calmer and more confident, while also lifting the spirits of parents, siblings and hospital staff.

Dr Flowerpot’s joyful songs and ukulele performances alongside Dr Nic Nac’s calming musical approach continue to make a meaningful difference to young patients in Sheffield.

At the Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation, we believe in the power of music to uplift and support wellbeing, and we are proud to continue supporting projects that bring comfort, creativity and happiness to children when they need it most.

To learn more about Theodora Children’s Charity, visit  Theodora Children’s Charity.

Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation Awards Grant to Urban Beat Academy CIC

The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation is proud to continue its support for Urban Beat Academy CIC, awarding a new grant to help deliver an inspiring creative music programme for young people in Sheffield.

Based at Arundel Lane Studios in Sheffield, Urban Beat Academy CIC works with young people who are disengaged from mainstream education, at risk of exclusion, or vulnerable to crime and anti-social behaviour. Through music, mentoring, and creative opportunities, the organisation creates safe and supportive spaces where young people can build confidence, develop skills, and reconnect with positive pathways.

The grant will support delivery of The Power of Music: A 2-Day Creative Programme, an intensive project designed for 10–12 young people from across Sheffield. Over two structured days, participants will take part in DJing, music production, and collaborative creative workshops, working together to create an original piece of music.

Importantly, participants who complete the programme will also achieve an Arts Award Discover qualification, providing formal recognition of their creativity and achievement. This new element builds on previous projects we have supported with Urban Beat Academy CIC, creating stronger progression opportunities into further education, training, and the wider creative industries.

The programme has been developed for young people who may struggle in traditional educational settings, including those in alternative provision, care-experienced young people, and individuals facing challenges around confidence, mental health, or social isolation. By using music as a tool for engagement and self-expression, the project aims to improve communication, teamwork, and self-belief while giving participants a constructive and positive outlet.

Urban Beat Academy CIC continues to work closely with local schools, Sheffield City Council, mentoring services, and alternative provision partners to ensure young people who could benefit most are able to access the programme.

We are delighted to support this next stage of their work and look forward to seeing the impact the project has on young people across Sheffield.

The Power of Brass: Celebrating Sheffield Music Hub’s 2026 Brass Extravaganza.

We are thrilled to announce that our latest grant has been awarded to Sheffield Music Hub, supporting their 2026 Brass Extravaganza, a large-scale celebration of young brass players from across the city at Victoria Hall on Monday 18 May 2026.

Taking place in the heart of Sheffield, the Brass Extravaganza will bring together children from six primary schools who are learning brass through Whole Class Ensemble Teaching, alongside young musicians from Firth Park Community Brass Band, a guest adult brass band and a professional ten-piece brass ensemble. This inspiring event showcases the full musical journey, from a first taste of brass in primary school through to youth, adult and professional performance.

Our grant will be used to make it possible for Sheffield Music Hub to offer this experience free of charge to participating schools, ensuring the event is delivered safely, professionally and inclusively for everyone involved.

The Brass Extravaganza is much more than a concert; for many children it will be their first time performing in a concert hall and seeing live professional musicians, giving them a powerful glimpse of where their music-making could lead. By watching older players and professionals on stage, young people can see clear progression routes beyond First Access lessons into youth ensembles, community bands and even performances on major stages such as the Royal Albert Hall through projects like the South Yorkshire Orchestral Collective.

By expanding the event from two schools last year to six in 2026, Sheffield Music Hub will open up this opportunity to significantly more young people, including many who might otherwise never take part in a large-scale music event. Offering the project free to schools removes a major financial barrier at a time when budgets are under pressure, and ensures children from all parts of the city can share in the excitement and confidence that come from performing together.

This project reflects the shared belief of Sheffield Music Hub and The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation that music changes lives and should be accessible to every child, regardless of background, income or circumstance. It echoes Sarah’s legacy by using music to bring people together, create joyful memories and give young people in Sheffield the chance to experience the happiness and possibility that music can bring.

Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation awards grant to RiteTrax CIC

The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation is delighted to announce a grant to RiteTrax CIC, supporting their ongoing work with young people in Sheffield.

RiteTrax has been delivering an NHS-funded project with around 10 young people since January, using music as a tool for creativity, confidence-building and personal development.  As that funding comes to an end, this grant will help ensure the group can continue receiving support rather than facing an abrupt finish to the project.

The award will fund a series of additional 1-to-1 sessions for the young people who have been most engaged in the project. These sessions will focus on music production, DJing and instrument learning, and will give participants the chance to continue developing original work built around the theme of Health and RiteTrax Growth.

RiteTrax works with vulnerable young people and adults. In light of recent budget cuts at key referral partner Staying Close, this project helps ensure young people can continue to access the creative support that has become so important to them.

We are proud to support organisations like RiteTrax, whose work helps young people to express themselves, build skills and stay connected through music.

Celebrating Music Day at Greenhill Community Library

We are delighted to share that Greenhill Community Library’s Music Day for Children has been awarded a grant from The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation.

Greenhill Community Library is a volunteer-run community hub in Sheffield, offering a welcoming, inclusive space for learning, creativity and connection.  As well as lending books, the library hosts activities such as pre-school storytime, children’s cinema, coding club, craft sessions, coffee mornings, and an annual Music Day for Children that has become a much-loved date in the local calendar.

This year’s Music Day will introduce young children to live music through storytelling, performance and hands-on exploration.  Professional musicians on violin, cello and other instruments will bring stories to life, supported by creative scripts, original arrangements and rehearsals designed to create an engaging, child-friendly performance.  Children will be able to try real instruments in “Come and Try” sessions with help from student volunteers and support from Sheffield Music Hub, alongside themed crafts, colouring and puzzles that extend the musical stories.

Music Day will primarily support children aged 4–8 and their families, with more than 60 attendees expected based on previous years.  Local primary schools, including Greenhill Primary, Lowedges Junior Academy and Lower Meadow Primary, will also be involved through assemblies and workshops that encourage pupils to engage with music and attend the event.  Parents, carers, volunteers and young musicians all benefit too, gaining access to a free cultural experience, community connection, and opportunities to build confidence, leadership and communication skills.

The event plays an important role in reducing social isolation, supporting literacy and providing free cultural opportunities for local families in Greenhill and the surrounding area.  By giving children the chance to experience live music up close, connect emotionally with story-led performances and explore instruments for themselves, Music Day helps nurture a long-term interest in music.  It also strengthens community ties and reinforces Greenhill Community Library’s role as a vibrant cultural hub for Sheffield.

Friends of Greenhill Library and their dedicated volunteers work year-round to keep this trusted community asset thriving, with clear governance, transparent budgeting and a strong focus on community wellbeing.  You can learn more about their work and upcoming events on their website at greenhill library.

Large grant awards March 2026 to two wonderful Charities

Soothing Sounds at Sheffield Children’s hospital : Bringing Calm to Critical Care

We’re really pleased to be supporting Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity again and to help bring more music to children, young people and families during some really tough times.

This summer, we’re teaming up to bring live, calming music into some of the busiest and most sensitive areas of Sheffield Children’s Hospital.

The Hospital looks after hundreds of thousands of babies, children and young people every year from across Sheffield and South Yorkshire. The Charity helps the hospital go beyond standard NHS care, funding things that make a real difference to treatment, comfort and wellbeing.

Soothing Sounds at Sheffield Children’s will bring gentle, acoustic music to the High Dependency Unit, Intensive Care Unit, Neonatal Surgical Unit and the Emergency Department. These are places where children, families and staff often feel stressed, worried and exhausted.

Across the summer, there will be a series of afternoon sessions led by a small team of specialist musicians. The idea is simple: soften the beeps and buzz of machines, create a calmer atmosphere and give families a few moments of comfort, connection and even joy.

Three brilliant musicians will be leading the sessions are all used to working in hospital settings and know how to read the room, whether that means a quiet lullaby or a much needed sing‑along.

The ward teams will plan the sessions  so that the musicians can visit children and families who are likely to benefit most. Sometimes that might be music at the bedside; other times it might be playing in a shared space on the ward.

Staff will be keeping an eye on how the music changes the feel of the ward, things like how settled children seem, how families are coping and how the overall atmosphere shifts and they’ll gather feedback and stories from everyone involved.

The team has already seen what a difference music can make at Sheffield Children’s:

·      On the Neonatal Surgical Unit, staff watched as unsettled babies calmed and stopped crying during the music. One member of staff said, “I’ve never seen this baby so calm.”

·      An older child asked for the Peppa Pig theme tune, which put a smile on his face and his dad’s while he was stuck in a cast.

·      On the High Dependency Unit, a mum told staff the song they played completely changed her day, and she “told every single person they have seen” about it.

·      A Clinical Lead summed it up perfectly: “The power of music is incredible… The impact you have is incredible!”

Stories like these are exactly why our foundation exists – to share the power of music where it’s needed most.

Soothing Sounds at Sheffield Children’s will run over the summer, reaching children, families and staff across four key areas of the hospital.

We’re proud to play a part in this journey and to support Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity as they bring comfort, colour and music into the hospital  one gentle song at a time.

Continued Support for The Choir with No Name, Sheffield

We’re really excited to be supporting The Choir with No Name in Sheffield again. The first time we funded them was right at the beginning, when the Sheffield choir was just getting off the ground and members were being recruited.

This new grant will help cover the costs of their freelance choir director, Oli Kluczewski, who leads weekly rehearsals for people in Sheffield affected by homelessness and related challenges, including addiction, mental health issues, social isolation and experiences of displacement. Week after week, members come together to sing, share a hot meal and spend time in a warm, welcoming community.

Over the coming year, the choir will be out and about performing across the city, including at least six gigs and their much-loved Christmas concert. These performances give members the chance to step into the spotlight, grow in confidence and challenge some of the negative stereotypes around homelessness.

We’re so proud to continue backing The Choir with No Name and to play a small part in helping music bring stability, purpose and joy to some of Sheffield’s most excluded communities.

Celebrating Folk Factory’s 10th Anniversary: Supporting Sheffield’s Youth Folk Festival

The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation is thrilled to support Soundpost in their upcoming Folk Factory Youth Festival, a special event marking the 10th anniversary of their celebrated Folk Factory programme.

Founded in 2011 by Sheffield musician and educator Fay Hield, Soundpost has become a shining example of how music, song and dance can bring people together. The Folk Factory, its youth wing established in 2016, offers young people across Sheffield the chance to explore folk traditions in a fun, inclusive and creative environment. With weekly sessions in music, singing and dance, the programme helps participants build confidence, express themselves, and connect with their heritage through performance and community activity.

The new Folk Factory Youth Festival, planned for summer 2026, will bring these values to life on a citywide stage. The two-day celebration will feature workshops, ceilidhs, dance-outs and performances — all organised and led by young people themselves. A youth steering group will meet regularly to plan the festival, giving participants valuable experience in event management and the chance to shape something truly their own.

Importantly, Soundpost is using this festival as a way to build new bridges across Sheffield’s diverse cultural communities. Collaborating with groups such as SADACCA, Sunrit Culture Group and Welcoming Culture, the project will bring young people from different traditions together to share their music, their dance, and their stories.

Folk Factory Director Nicola Beazley explains that this initiative is about celebrating the breadth of what “folk” means in Sheffield today — challenging the idea that folk music belongs to one group or tradition, and instead showing how it connects everyone through shared creativity and participation.

The Sarah Nulty Power of Music Foundation is proud to support this festival, which embodies Sarah’s belief that music has the power to unite people and change lives. Sheffield has long been known as the capital of folk, and projects like this keep that reputation alive while making space for new voices and traditions to be heard.

To learn more about Soundpost and the Folk Factory, visit soundpost.org.uk.