Exciting new chapter for Leicestershire Music begins

More than 1,000 people came to hear 250 young musicians from across Leicestershire perform at their new Haymarket Theatre home, marking an exciting new chapter for the UK’s oldest music service

Almost 100 alumni also attended the Leicestershire Music event, to reconnect with old friends and share memories of making music over many decades. Several alumni have now come forward to offer support from delivering masterclasses to sponsoring ensemble places.

Young musicians from across Leicestershire performed at their new Haymarket Theatre home for the first time | Credit: Pictured by Lamar

placeholder image — Young musicians from across Leicestershire performed at their new Haymarket Theatre home for the first time | Credit: Pictured by Lamar

Sarah Barton-Wales, Head of Leicestershire Music, said: “It was wonderful to witness our inaugural Haymarket performance and Alumni Scheme launch come together. The teamwork displayed was incredible and to see young people perform, see true inclusion and excellence side by side on stage and hear about how Leicestershire Music has changed lives over its 70+ years was truly inspiring.”

More performances are planned for their new home at the Haymarket Theatre including a Diwali celebration on 31st October 2026.

The theatre - which has not seen performances on its stage since 2018 - is the base for the Leicestershire Music ensembles and choirs. Any children and young people interested in joining can sign up for a free two week trial. There is also help for educators who would like music to take place in their school.

The event also saw the launch of the official Alumni Network, with many members reflecting on their time with the service and pledging support, with organisers urging more alumni to join the online community, with regular newsletters and events.

Many of the alumni have shared glowing reviews following the ‘Leics Celebrate’ concert on 21 March, which featured a speech from Jonathan Vaughan, Principal of Guildhall School of Music and Drama, who described the service as ‘rising like a phoenix once again.’

Martyn Axe, who went on to be a Broadway and West End Musical Director, said: “I have been blessed with the life of music because of Leicestershire Music… the concert was so good and thank you for all your hard work.”

Mike Griffiths, Vice Chair of Leicestershire Music Hub Board, said: ‘’It was great to be at The Haymarket and De Montfort Hall over the past week and see the enthusiastic and dedicated work going on - and to see young people enjoying music. I was particularly pleased to see a large secondary choir including some boys!!’’

Alumnus Issie Barratt, a leading jazz composer and educator, said: “Great to see the current generation of young musicians as well as sharing memories with the alumni of our time playing in the youth orchestras.”

Alumnus Mark Andrew Sperry said: “Back in the day, we were so lucky and fortunate to receive top quality instrumental tuition and orchestra practice (including travel to and from venues) for free. The vision of the staff and education directors was something that has left a marvellous legacy. Let's hope the young people continue getting the valuable experiences that we got for years to come.”

With plenty of performance opportunities coming up, it’s a great time to join.