Instruments for over 450 young musicians

For the children and young people who have the opportunity to be a part of Nucleo, the experience means so much more than learning an instrument. Our programme provides a safe and supportive environment, a community, a place to connect and belong: 93% of students say they feel connected to others here. When asked about their Nucleo experience, they talk most about making friends, having opportunities to help others, celebrating their classmates’ successes, and enjoying playing together. One student shared, “The best thing about being part of Nucleo is that it’s a really fun community. You come in to learn music, but you learn to meet new people and build up your confidence.”

Belonging to the programme fosters commitment, agency, and deeper family connections. Families report that they “have learned about classical music” and that through Nucleo, “music is something we participate in/ make rather than just consume”. They emphasise the wider benefits the “the Nucleo family” brings, such as increased social contact, strengthening parental skills, a greater sense of optimism about their child’s future, and the joy of seeing not only seeing their own child, but other students, thrive.

None of this would be possible without your invaluable support. In the 2024-25 academic year, thanks to donations like yours, 432 students accessed a free music education. In the past two years, our waiting list has nearly doubled, from 291 to 564 children and young people. With your continued support, children and families can work towards better and happier futures for themselves and their communities.

We are forever grateful to have you on this journey with us.

Links:

• Read our latest Impact Report for 2024-25!

We’re excited to continue this academic year with you. Thanks to your support, Nucleo has grown from a handful of students to over 400 attending weekly music sessions.

Demand remains high: more than 500 young people are still waiting to join, and some new students waited nearly three years for their chance. Their commitment shows in attendance - since September 2023, ensembles average over 80%, even with requirements of up to four sessions weekly. As one parent shared: “My child’s confidence grew tremendously. He learnt that he always needs to work hard, persevere and be consistent to achieve a skill or a goal because of Nucleo”.

Music education opportunities in schools have declined, but Nucleo removes barriers by offering free, high-quality ensemble-based learning to all children, regardless of background. Our community is diverse: students come from 70+ schools, speak 40+ languages, and 77% are from Global Majority backgrounds - still underrepresented in classical music.

Music brings joy, friendships, and life skills. Families describe Nucleo as a source of pride and belonging. As one student beautifully put it: “I deeply enjoy spending time with people who feel like family at Nucleo”.

Every opportunity we provide is thanks to donors like you. Your generosity has transformed hundreds of lives and will help us reach many more. Thank you for being part of this journey.