American Friends of Nucleo

As you may know, Nucleo is the only organisation of its kind in England – a free, immersive, and comprehensive, after-school ensemble-based programme focused on changing lives and building communities through music.

The new school year is now well and truly underway, and this year we are working with over 400 students, six days a week! We have had a busy start - from new 3 and 4-year-olds joining our musicianship classes, to last year’s starters moving into the full orchestras, and our most advanced students planning and preparing for their own recital in December.

Meanwhile, we are excited about what we’re learning from students about the impact of our work. Last year, 89% reported that they feel connected to others at Nucleo. 94% say they take responsibility for what they need to do at Nucleo. And 89% believe in their ability to achieve their musical goals. Our students are learning so much more than just music – independence, confidence, resilience, emotional regulation, teamwork - and we hope that the life skills they are developing will serve them well in whatever they go on to do. One student (aged 13) wrote “I am grateful to everyone at Nucleo for all their hard work to help all of us become better in every way.”

We would not be able to do this work without your generous support. 85% of Nucleo families live in the poorest 50% of neighbourhoods nationally, and 51% in the most deprived two deciles. Of course, the life skills, community building and personal development that you offer our students through your investment are incredible. But we are just as grateful for the sheer joy that you give to our community by enabling happy moments and wonderful experiences for our kids. A parent recently told us “My child’s attendance at Nucleo has brought immense joy and pride to our family”. Thank you for being here with us, helping to do that.