I am walking for East Glasgow Music School who are a registered charity based in the heart of the East End of Glasgow. They were established in 1997, having previously been known as Bannerman Music School (which began in 1978!).

Their ethos is to provide music lessons to children from all backgrounds on a hugely subsidised basis, breaking down the financial barriers that so often stop children from accessing music. The music school operate on Saturday mornings, and the team of dedicated staff and volunteers provide lessons in instruments from violin to trumpet, piano to flute. Choir and orchestra, and other group work based on age and stage are offered.

The school works with over 100 children every week, and many of the pupils go on to have careers in the world of music as teachers or professional performers. 

In addition to learning and developing in their chosen instrument, pupils gain valuable life skills – confidence, building friendships, challenging themselves at every stage. The school takes part in various festivals and performances throughout the year, and celebrate the contributions of every pupil.

The music school provides instruments to pupils on free loan, and will always strive to accommodate as many pupils as the timetables allows, often operating waiting lists.

In a hugely challenging funding landscape, the music school has lost 2 major funders over the last 2 years, and are now trying to make up the shortfall while seeking new sources of funding. In order to keep the school running, they are aiming to raise £20,000.