Music For Schools
We engage thousands of children and young people from schools across Gloucestershire and beyond with year-round and in Festival Music for Schools programmes.
Concert For Schools and Music Explorer Sessions 2026
Tickets £2 per pupil
Thursday 9 July, Cheltenham Town Hall
Concert: 10.30 - 11.30am
Inspire Orchestra conducted by Glyn Oxley
Music Explorers: 11.50am and 12.50pm
Experience the thrill of live orchestral music at our bespoke concert for children and teachers in KS2 and become a Music Explorer in hands-on instrumental sessions after the concert.
Swap the classroom for Cheltenham’s beautiful Town Hall where the Inspire Orchestra will bring you a treasure trove of classical music that reflects the rhythms of life.
Together we will explore how listening to music can engage our emotions and enrich a shared experience. We will discover that music is much more than the sound of notes woven together; it touches the heart, evokes feelings and creates connections.
Music Explorer sessions are a great opportunity for teachers and pupils to have a go on a range of orchestral instruments and find out about music tuition and other music-making opportunities across Gloucestershire.
Booking opens 18 March 8am
The choice of repertoire for the concert was a real hit with the children as it was a fantastic experience for them to hear the pieces they recognised being played live. Many commented that 'they knew this one' which was super. Seeing one of their peers on stage was also a highlight as was joining in with actions/dance moves. In the explorer sessions, having the opportunity to play orchestral instruments that most of the children haven't played before was a highlight.
Teacher, Powell's Primary, 2025
Relaxed Concert for Schools, 2026
Supported by Attivo
Free Tickets
Wednesday 8 July, Cheltenham Town Hall
Concert: 11 - 11.50am
Meet the musicians: 12 - 1.15pm
Join us to explore a musical rainbow in this colourful concert featuring the Inspire Orchestra. Together we will explore how listening and responding to music can engage our emotions and enrich a shared experience. Will we find a pot of gold at the end…?
For children and young people with disabilities or additional needs, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a live performance in an adapted environment. Audience members can dance, sing and leave/return to the auditorium – whatever makes them comfortable.
About the adaptations we make
- All presenters use Makaton
- Lighting remains steady
- Warnings are given before any loud music
- Extra ear defenders are available
- Seating is informal with plenty of floor cushions
- A quiet space and fully-equipped Mobiloo are available
When we asked the pupils which songs they liked it was really easy for them to identify it by prop. E.g. I liked the flower one the best. They really enjoyed having a dance at the end with the musicians as well as playing on their instruments. Always a precious moment and most appreciated! Thank you for adding in actions, dances etc. What a lovely addition!
Teacher, The Shrubberies, 2025
The songs and noise volume worked really well for our children, some of whom like to feel the vibrations through the floor. We also loved how close we could get to the musicians and how flexible they were with children moving around them.
Teacher, Battledown, 2025
It was a really good choice of music. The way the pieces were introduced using the baskets was so good. The musicians really engaged with the students.
Head, Apperley Centre, 2025
Image gallery
The opportunity for the pupils (and staff) to try out the instruments was really enjoyable, and the fact that there were so many instruments available meant that the children didn't get bored waiting for their turn.
Teacher The Catholic School of St Gregory the Great - 2024
