Music is a powerful tool – SFE’s Fundraising Manager, Sarah Caldwell, discusses how our work at SFE harnesses that power to engage people across the City.  

Music as a tool for Personal Development 

At SFE, we believe in the transformative power of music. Every year, our free Music Ensembles engage over 4,000 young musicians in schools across Birmingham, offering them the chance to perform on prestigious stages both locally and nationally, including Birmingham Symphony Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. 

From training orchestras, to grading exams and full symphony orchestras, our Ensembles offer a range of musical opportunities. But, beyond developing musical talent, our young musicians also develop essential life skills such as literacy, numeracy, communication, and confidence. 

“Ruby’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music education. The music service has not only equipped her with musical skills but has also played a crucial role in her personal development. As she looks forward to pursuing a music degree, she carries with her the lessons, experiences, and confidence gained through the support and opportunities provided by the music service.”

– Ensemble Parent

Music for Wellbeing and Inclusion 

Studies regularly show that engaging with music promotes positive mental health and wellbeing for those taking part. It can sooth and relax or it can energise and uplift, it can trigger fond memories, and it can bridge generation gaps, creating opportunities to enjoy shared experiences.  

Through our inclusive work, we aim to reach those who are often considered ‘hard to reach’—people with disabilities, disadvantaged communities, and older adults—bringing the joy and benefits of music to those who might otherwise miss out.  

Music can impact these groups in different ways and mean different things to those involved, but our projects make every participant feel special and gives them something to be proud of.  

“If it wasn’t for the singing group I would just stay in my room. It gives me a zest, and something to look forward to. It really is the highlight of my week.”

– Barbara, Hagley Road Village Singing Group   

“Archie loves group sessions—being with people, watching, and joining in shared activities. He observes as much as he participates, and even if he’s quiet during the session, he’ll sing the songs in the car on the way home! Singing together is a brilliant reset for us both, especially when we’re tired or feeling low. Archie began speaking around age five, and singing has been wonderful practice for developing his speech.”

– Birmingham Inclusive Choir Parent

Bringing People Together Through Music 

Our music-making isn’t just about individual growth – it’s about connection. Whether its young musicians sharing their progress and passion, communities bonding through shared experience, audiences experiencing new music for the first time or families coming together to proudly watch their children perform, music has the power to unite. 

“Nothing compares with watching your child step onto the stage at a world-class music venue. We’ve brought friends and relatives to these performances, and it’s helped bring us closer together as a family.”

– Ensemble Parent

‘’People can find talking with others difficult. But singing together is easier, it’s joyful, and people prefer it. It makes us all feel better”.

– Beryl (Solihull)

Help Us Keep the Music Playing 

The impact of SFE and music ripples across the city, reaching thousands – but we can’t do it alone. As a charity, we rely on your support to make this work possible. 

By making a donation, you become part of that impact – helping us ensure that the music keeps playing, and that it continues to reach those who need it most. 

For more information on our projects and how you can support them:

Further Reading:

• The Power of Music: A Research Synthesis of the Impact of Actively Making Music on the Intellectual, Social and Personal Development of Children and Young People | Music Mark 
• The health benefits of music | AXA Health 

About the Author

Sarah Caldwell – Fundraising Manager, Services For Education

Sarah Caldwell joined Services For Education in Summer 2023, bringing with her over 14 years fundraising experience. Working in the Birmingham charity sector, she has raised valuable funds for a range of projects impacting the day to day lives of young people with disabilities.

Sarah has experience across a number of fundraising streams (including Trusts & Foundation, Events and Corporate Fundraising), and brings this, along with a strong interest in building relationships with supporters, to her role at SFE