A wealth of evidence shows that taking part in arts activities benefits children, from teamwork through music-making to developing a love of the arts. But teachers tell us that there are issues preventing schools from taking part, due to changes in the curriculum and cuts to school budgets. There are also gaps in provision, with fewer opportunities for children aged under 5 and those with special educational needs. In addition classical music can be perceived as elitist and for adults only.

We want to introduce children to classical music through engaging activities that meet needs identified by teachers. At our Far, Far Away storytelling performances pupils aged 0–5 are introduced to works by a classic composer with specially-created stories and theatrical elements (adapted for pupils with special needs). At our Immersed workshops pupils experience a memorised performance of a symphony from right inside the orchestra, giving a viscerally intense experience of classical music.