The ECO in your community with Close Encounters

Whilst steeped in history, the English Chamber Orchestra boasts a progressive attitude towards building new audiences. Projects emerging since the covid period share a musical vision that demonstrates how solid connections and partnerships between primary schools, secondary schools, universities, conservatoires, arts venues and community groups can generate a holistic musical ecosphere. The orchestra is determined to celebrate situational excellence extending from renowned soloists through to young people encountering live music for the first time.It is on the foundations of youth that Britain’s celebrated musical tradition will develop and thrive. Thanks to the musicians of the ECO, inspirational music educators and the management team, the ECO has been delivering beyond its West London base, across London and the South East.

During 2023/24 this work will extend further afield to West Yorkshire. Innovative methodologies and practises are being developed and refined as the ECO responds to the demands of the new National Plan For Music Education.

The ECO believes music is for everyone.Whilst ensuring that Close Encounters between young people and professional musicians, performing in a diverse range of styles, is a key aspect of any musical society; professional development for teachers & tutors (CPD), delivering curriculum based resources and highly motivational projects during timetabled lessons are key to our success.

”........everyone should have the opportunity at an early age to be inspired by the arts…...........even the most disaffected or disadvantaged child can be excited by a wonderful piece of theatre or music and be inspired to give voice to their own ideas and feelings.”
HRH The Former Prince of Wales, Patron.

The ECOs outreach work isn’t just about young people. Over the next few months the team will unveil a raft of new projects aimed at adults and a scheme linking multigenerational music making to social prescribing and dementia care.

In order to enable our work in the community, we need your support. If you would like to get in touch to find out more about our programmes or explore how you can help us deliver and fund our work. Please contact our Learning & Participation Manager, Greg Boardman greg.boardman@englishchamberorchestra.co.uk