The People’s Orchestra is a game-changing music organisation, engaging the power of music to realise potential and fulfil lives.
Music and creativity are more vital than ever, providing people with solace, relaxation, inspiration and hope. We believe culture is a human right and that collaborative creative effort makes for a kinder, more inclusive society. Based in Sandwell in the Black Country - one of the most deprived local authorities in England - The People’s Orchestra performs with, and for, communities across the Midlands. Our professionally led, inclusive programmes support musicians, singers and non-creatives of all levels to fulfil their potential, whether reaching for a personal performance goal, enabling self-expression, managing mental health issues or developing new skills and job opportunities.
Our accessible and positive ethos breaks down elitist barriers to music making. We celebrate the music of our everyday lives by integrating film, games and TV scores, show and popular music into our performances, alongside premieres and newly commissioned work. Through these recognisable access points, we attract and delight audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Our phenomenally successful volunteer and work placement programme has assisted nearly 1,000 unemployed people into work, and provides valuable skills and training to many others embarking on pathways into creative careers. Through these routes, we harness the power and joy of making and performing music, to inspire, educate and provoke positive change, in settings ranging from local care homes and town halls to international exchange programmes and global culture.