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.