Earthsong Schools Summer Celebrations Continue to Grow

11 September 2026

Since the first celebration in 2022, when a 99-piece children’s orchestra performed together for the first time, the Earthsong Schools” annual summer events have continued to grow in scale, confidence and ambition. This June, in 4 separate events, Year 4, 5 and 6 musicians once again filled the stage of the Bristol Beacon’s magnificent concert hall, creating, performing and celebrating music together.

This year’s celebrations took an exciting new creative direction, led by composer and workshop leader Jonathan James. Supported by a live band of professional jazz musicians, the children created an original themed piece from scratch, using improvisation, musical motifs, body percussion and singing, with each year group’s performance evolving in its own unique way. Many pupils showed remarkable confidence by volunteering improvised solos – including an entire viola section who queued to perform at the microphone in front of the audience, creating some of the day’s most memorable moments.

Jonathan James said: “The creative energy was awesome. It was amazing to see the children’s openness and bravery in improvising, and I hope this gives a new confidence in how music can be understood and made together.”

The celebrations also recognised the fantastic contribution of Earthsong’s Music Ambassadors, whose leadership has encouraged singing, music-making and pupil voice throughout their schools. During the Year 6 celebration, they shared thoughtful reflections in front of the camera on the importance of music education, helping to capture the lasting impact of the Earthsong programme.

Find out more about our Earthsong Schools Programme: Earthsong Schools Project: 7 Years In