Making Every Note Count: Excellence, Equity & Access in Music

This year’s HarrisonParrott Foundation Symposium brings together leading voices from across the music ecosystem to explore how innovation, collaboration, and accountability can drive lasting social change in the sector.

From breakfast with international cellist Nicolas Altstaedt to a hands-on co-creation workshop, the day moves through four dynamic themes—each asking tough questions about who shapes the future of music and how.

Morning sessions tackle the “why” of the work: the Social Value Engine demonstrates real-time impact measurement, while UK Music and university researchers discuss how evidence and advocacy are reshaping policy.

Midday dives into the “how”—as Simon Webb leads a debate on storytelling, broadcasting, and digital self-agency in today’s DIY music careers.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to “who”—with youth and educator panels spotlighting access, equity, and the future of music education. Delegates then collaborate with Vick Bain to co-design the CHORD Toolkit, a living resource for cross-sector partnership and shared accountability.

The day concludes with a forward-looking conversation on “where next”—examining what attracts and retains talent in the creative industries, and how culture, leadership, and opportunity shape careers.

Finally, attendees are invited to connect over Cocktail Hour, closing a day built on dialogue, insight, and shared purpose.

Please join the conversation and help shape our sector for the better!

In partnership with: The Glasshouse, UK Music, BBC Orchestras & Choirs, Young Sounds.