Inspiring communities across generations
What we do
Playground Proms was founded in 2021 by Artistic Director Cathal Ó Dúill. Inspired by the world-renowned BBC Promenade Concerts, it was first developed during the COVID-19 social distancing restrictions, initially bringing live performances to a few school playgrounds in Cumbria. Since then, the programme has grown rapidly and brought the joy and wonder of live classical music to over 150,000 children in hundreds of primary and SEND schools across the UK. With music provision in state schools having been so badly cut in recent years, Playground Proms seeks to inspire the professional musicians of the future.
Our work is powered by a unique partnership between professional musicians from Graffiti Classics and educators trained in Dalcroze Eurhythmics, a method that uses movement and rhythm to engage children of all abilities in music-making. Our mission is simple: to ensure that every child, regardless of background, ability, or postcode, can experience the magic of live orchestral music in their own school.
As well as working with schools we often organise pop up concerts in communities local to the schools we are visiting. Increasingly we are also working with care homes, particularly those with links to schools, enabling young people to share their creative learning through intergenerational concerts.
‘What a fantastic event. The Dalcroze workshop was perfectly pitched to our children, all engaged and enjoying it. Learned about music, movement and dance. The Playground Proms visit felt such a pleasure to be involved in. An amazing opportunity for our isolated, rural community to not only see and hear a live string quartet but also to perform with them too. Something we will remember forever.’
Primary School, Cumbria
We are always delighted to receive enquiries about our work and invitations to visit!