A message from the CEO
Music and performing arts education changes lives. It builds confidence, nurtures creativity, develops resilience and opens doors to opportunities that enrich young people throughout their lives. For nearly 60 years, NMPAT has been at the heart of making this possible for children and young people across Northamptonshire and Rutland. Every child deserves the chance to discover the joy of making music. Whether learning their first notes in the classroom, rehearsing with friends in a Saturday centre, or performing on stage at the Royal Albert Hall, NMPAT creates pathways for all young people to experience exceptional music education – regardless of background or starting point.
Charlotte Buxton Chief Executive, NMPAT
Why NMPAT?
Quality is at the heart of everything we do. Our team of specialist teachers brings unrivalled expertise and passion to every lesson, ensemble rehearsal and performance. We don’t just teach notes on a page— we inspire young musicians, nurture their talents and support them to excel. Our county youth ensembles are recognised nationally for their outstanding standards, and our reputation speaks for itself.
But excellence means nothing if it isn’t accessible. That’s why we’re committed to keeping high-quality music education within reach for schools and families. Through innovative teaching approaches, flexible partnerships and a deep understanding of the pressures schools face, we work alongside you to ensure music remains vibrant and sustainable in your school.
Our Promise
NMPAT exists for one reason: to put music and performing arts at the very heart of every school and every young person’s education. We are here to support you—whether that’s delivering engaging lessons in school time, providing progression routes through our Saturday centres and county ensembles, offering CPD for your staff, or working with you to design a music provision that fits your needs and budget. Our work combines high standards with accessibility. We design provision that is ambitious, inclusive and financially sustainable, working alongside school leaders to ensure music remains a vibrant and valued part of school life.
This brochure outlines the range of support we can offer for the 2026–27 academic year. I invite you to explore what’s possible and to get in touch. Together, we can ensure that every young person in our region has the opportunity to experience the transformational power of music.
Delivering music education across Northamptonshire and Rutland
163 music and performing arts sessions
3 SEND specific music and performing arts sessions
20 dedicated Early Years sessions Music For Youth Regional and National Festival Success
Delivering music weekly in over 300 Northamptonshire and Rutland schools
10 County Centres Performance &Events
54,000
150+
High quality concerts and performance events each year
407 Whole class instumental projects Performances at the Derngate for all County Ensembles
636 County Ensemble members
About NMPAT
Inspire. Nurture. Excel
For nearly 60 years, Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust (NMPAT) has been giving the gift of music and performing arts to thousands of young people across our region. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to discover the joy, confidence, and creativity that music and performing arts bring, regardless of background, ability, or aspiration. What sets us apart?
Our mission is clear: to provide high-quality music and performing arts education and unforgettable experiences to as many young people as possible. Our primary goal is enrichment, not just achievement. We nurture talent, celebrate progress, and create a supportive environment where young people can thrive.
NMPAT as Hub Lead Organisation
Arts Council England Hub Lead Organisation
NMPAT is proud to be designated as an Arts Council England Hub Lead Organisation—a recognition of our expertise, track record and commitment to delivering exceptional music education across Northamptonshire and Rutland.
What does this mean?
As one of just 43 Hub Lead Organisations selected nationally, NMPAT is part of an ambitious programme ensuring every child and young person in England has access to high-quality music education.
Strategic leadership
We lead music education across our region, working in partnership with schools, cultural organisations, and the wider music sector to create a connected, thriving music education landscape.
Quality assurance
Our designation reflects our proven ability to deliver outstanding music education. We maintain the highest standards in teaching, safeguarding and partnership working, giving schools confidence in the quality and reliability of our provision.
What this means for your school
Working with NMPAT means you are working with an organisation that is:
★ Nationally recognised for excellence in music education
★ Connected to a wider network of music education expertise across England
★ Committed to supporting schools with sustainable, high-quality music provision
★ Partnership-focused, bringing together the best of what our region has to offer
Our Hub Partnerships
As Hub Lead Organisation, we work collaboratively with an extensive network of partners including schools, colleges, universities, community music organisations and professional ensembles.
Together, we are building a music education system that truly works for every child in our region—and NMPAT is proud to lead this vital work.
NMPAT is a proven, quality source of music knowledge, education, tuition and excellence!
Woodland View Primary School
Meet our experts
Charlotte Buxton Chief Executive
With over two decades of strategic leadership across England’s music education sector, Charlotte has driven transformational change at scale. She has held senior positions at Bromley Youth Music Trust and Services for Education, leading major programmes including Wider Opportunities, specialist instrumental provision, and award-winning county-wide ensemble development.
In 2021, Charlotte was honoured with the inaugural Goldstars Award at the Music and Drama Education Expo in recognition of her exceptional impact and influence across the sector.
Charlotte’s leadership is defined by a relentless commitment to equity, excellence and impact. She champions a vision where every child—regardless of background or circumstance – has access to worldclass music education that unlocks potential, builds confidence and creates lifelong opportunity.
Christopher Jeffs Director of Learning Development
Areas of responsibility:
★ Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
★ Lead School Programme
★ Music Cluster Groups
★ CPD for both specialist and non-specialist teachers
★ Whole Class Instrumental Tuition – WCIT
★ NMPAT’s Music Production initiatives, ensuring every young person can access music– whether through traditional instruments or technology
Chris is a dedicated music educator with extensive experience in curriculum design and teacher development. A graduate of the London College of Music, he has taught various qualifications across Northamptonshire, including GCSE, A-level and Vocational courses with different exam boards.
He collaborates with primary colleagues through the Northamptonshire and Rutland Music Hub, managing Whole-Class Instrumental Tuition and leading professional development initiatives. Chris believes every young person deserves access to high-quality music education and supports teachers in fostering this environment.
Nicola Maddock
Director of School-based Teaching
Areas of responsibility:
★ Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
★ Individual and group teaching
★ Recital Teams
★ Music and Performing Arts Centres
★ SpeedAdmin Lead
Nicola studied music at the University of York, where she developed a deep passion for music education and community-based projects — alongside playing violin and recorder. She went on to complete a Primary PGCE with a specialism in music. Throughout her teaching career, Nicola has maintained a strong focus on music, the performing arts and SEND, passionately believing that music and the arts should be inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Nicola is delighted to now be leading NMPAT’s Centres. Having experienced first-hand the fantastic foundation they provide for early collective music making, she understands the powerful role they can play as a catalyst and pathway for children’s wider musical development. She is excited to champion this vital area of NMPAT’s work.
Iain McKnight Director of Ensembles and Partnerships
Areas of responsibility:
★ Designated Safeguarding Lead
★ County Ensembles
★ Partnerships and Projects
★ Courses and Tours
★ Reach the Stars/SEND
★ Music Therapy
Iain is a graduate of the University of Salford (BA (Hons) Music and MA Compositional Studies) and also studied for a PGCE in Secondary Music at Manchester Metropolitan University, before beginning his teaching career in 2008. He has enjoyed a long and rewarding playing career with some of the country’s finest brass bands, winning the prestigious National Championships of Great Britain on three occasions. Iain is also a respected and in-demand composer, arranger and conductor. His music has been featured on live national television and radio as well as numerous commercial recordings.
Iain is a passionate advocate for the transformative role that music and, in particular, performance can play in the lives of children and young people. His sole ambition is that our students retain their love of music when they move on from NMPAT, whether as an enthusiastic amateur or a professional musician in their own right.
School-based learning Offer for schools
Flexible provision designed around your school
We work in partnership with school leaders to ensure music is curriculum-rich, sustainable and aligned with your Music Development Plan.
NEW! For Primary Schools
Whole-Class Instrumental Learning (WCIT) and Progression Pathway
At NMPAT, we believe that every child should have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. Through our WCIT projects, we provide high-quality whole-class instrumental tuition.
Instruments include:
★ Brass (Trumpet / Trombone)
★ Percussion (Djembe or Samba)
★ Strings (Violin and/or Cello)
★ Ukulele
★ Woodwind (Clarinet or Recorder)
The WCIT programme
Our WCIT programme is subsidised through Arts Council England funding.
WCIT is delivered to every Year 4 class* by a single specialist music teacher, working in close partnership with the class teacher. Sessions last around 45 minutes per class, every week, for a full academic year. Schools commit to the whole year, with flexible options for how learning continues in the spring and summer terms.
“The impact of NMPAT is transformative: from the excellent, inclusive whole class projects that get an instrument into the hands of every child, through to high quality individual lessons and the bespoke support for our SEND pupils”
Headlands
Primary School
Each whole class session includes a varied mix of linked activities, such as:
★ performing
★ singing
★ focused listening
★ improvisation
★ creative composition opportunities
Every child is loaned a free instrument. With careful preparation and training, pupils can take their instrument home to practise.
* Other year groups may be considered, based on a school’s individual requirements and circumstances. Please contact cjeffs@nmpat.co.uk to discuss.
Why progression?
Turn whole-class enthusiasm into a lasting music culture.
Our progression route is designed to be ambitious, inclusive and financially sustainable — shaped in collaboration with school leaders so music remains a vibrant, valued part of school life
It gives pupils a clear, affordable next step beyond whole-class learning, helping you:
★ build confidence and musical fluency
★ sustain momentum across the year
★ develop committed young musicians who are ready to play together
Could this be the start of your school ensemble?
How the year works
★ Autumn term: whole-class instrumental learning.
★ From Spring term, schools can choose the model that best fits their pupils:
Option 1: Spring and Summer remain whole class.
Option 2: Spring term whole class, then progression in summer term (groups of 8–16 pupils, 1 hour).
Option 3: Spring and Summer progression (groups of 8–16 pupils, 1 hour).
Progression sessions are delivered in 2 x 30-minute blocks, with a minimum of 4 pupils and a maximum of 8 pupils per session.
How the funding works
Our WCIT programme is subsidised through Arts Council England funding. Because this provision is whole class, delivered in curriculum time, schools are not able to charge parents/carers for WCIT.
If you choose Option 2 or Option 3 (progression), the school can decide whether to:
★ fund the progression for consistency from school budgets, or
★ pass the cost on to parents/carers (NMPAT can provide a direct billing option on request)
Year package price £1265 (including subsidy).
Alternative 10-Week Project (very limited availability)
If your school would like to discuss a standalone, single term, 10 week project, please contact cjeffs@nmpat.co.uk. Please be aware that there is very limited availability for this product and it is only available between 9am-12pm. Please see price list for details.
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Year 7 Whole-Class Initiatives
We can also offer bespoke whole-class initiatives for Year 7 students. Please contact cjeffs@nmpat.co.uk to discuss availability and options.
Instrumental Music Tuition
Individual & paired lessons
Through instrumental tuition with NMPAT, students have the opportunity to learn how to play an instrument from skilled, experience musicians. Whether learning for enjoyment or progressing towards graded exams and conservatoire study, we support every stage of development.
Why choose NMPAT tuition?
Personalised and Dedicated
Lessons are tailored to the individual. From first notes to advanced performance, each pupil receives focused support appropriate to their goals and ability.
Specialist and Outstanding
Many of our teachers are active performers. Pupils benefit from real-world musical expertise alongside high-quality pedagogy.
Focused Learning with Ensemble Opportunities
Individual or paired lessons are complemented by opportunities to join ensembles, perform publicly and take part in residential courses
Key Benefits
★ Free instrument hire for most instruments
★ Expert teachers who are active performers
★ Individual or paired tuition
★ Beginner to advanced level progression
★ Performance opportunities and residential courses
★ Lessons during school hours, after school and at weekends
Instruments available:
Woodwind
★ Bassoon and Contrabassoon
★ Clarinet and Bass Clarinet
★ Flute and Piccolo
★ Oboe and Cor Anglais
★ Saxophone
Brass
★ Euphonium / Baritone
★ Flugel Horn
★ French Horn
★ Tenor Horn
★ Trombone
★ Trumpet / Cornet
★ Tuba
Strings
★ Cello
★ Double Bass
★ Harp
★ Viola
★ Violin
Guitar
★ Bass Guitar
★ Classical Guitar
★ Electric Guitar
Keyboard and Percussion
★ Drum Kit
★ Keyboard
★ Orchestral Percussion
★ Piano
Technology
★ Music Production
Pricing
£55 per hour – school billing or direct parent/carer billing options are available.
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Large Group Teaching
NEW! Large Group Teaching
An accessible starting point
Large group Teaching provides an affordable and engaging entry into instrumental learning for new starters. Designed as a progression route from Whole Class Instrumental Teaching (WCIT) or as a standalone starting point, this model combines quality teaching with the benefits of learning alongside peers in both the primary and secondary phase.
Delivered in small groups of a minimum of 4 to maximum of 8 pupils, these 30-minute lessons balance focused instruction with collaborative music-making. Pupils develop confidence, ensemble awareness and core technique in a supportive and social environment.
Key Features
★ Clear progression to individual or paired tuition
★ Pathway into centres and county ensembles
★ Cost-effective model for schools and families, from only £6.88 per lesson
Large Group Teaching provides a sustainable bridge between whole-class provision and individual/paired instrumental lessons.
Pricing
£22.70 per child, per month. School or direct parent/carer billing options are available.
For more information on this new initiative please contact nmaddock@nmpat.co.uk
Recital Teams (in-school performances)
Our Brass, Strings, Woodwind and New Beats (Rock & Pop) recital teams are available to visit your school to inspire pupils and promote music-making. These short, engaging performances help showcase instruments, raise awareness of progression routes, and encourage new sign-ups.
Available to book for a small administrative charge of £35.
New! Rock-it
Rock-it is the new groups tuition product for aspiring rock and pop musicians. Learning to play electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, keyboard and vocals in a band environment, young musicians find their performance voice while working in a supportive and fun music environment.
Delivered within our group tuition model with groups of a minimum of 4 to maximum of 8 students, these 30-minute lessons enable students to develop their performance, instrumental, vocal and compositional skills in a safe musical environment with experienced and knowledgeable teachers.
Key Features
★ Clear progression to individual or paired tuition
★ Pathway into Centres and County Ensembles
★ Cost-effective model for schools and families, from only £8.60 per week
Pricing
£28.50 per child, per month.
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Inclusive music making – SEND in Schools
Supporting children and young people with Additional Needs
Every child deserves the opportunity to create, communicate, and express themselves through music.
Reach the Stars
NMPAT’s Reach the Stars programme brings highquality music education to children and young people with additional needs across Special Schools and DSP units throughout the county.
What we offer
★ Bespoke delivery tailored to individual needs
★ Development of core life skills: confidence, teamwork, communication, and creativity
★ Enhanced concentration, self-esteem, and social interaction through music
Bespoke Projects
Ten-week tailored projects delivered to groups or classes. Session length flexible to suit your students’ needs.
Pricing
£830 for a 10-week project
“The music sessions have been transformational for our daughter. She looks forward to them every week and has grown so much in confidence. The staff truly understand her needs and create such a welcoming, joyful environment. Music has given her a voice.”
Parent of a Reach the Stars student
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Music Therapy
Small group & individual tuition
NMPAT offers Music Therapy sessions in SEND, SEMH, and mainstream settings. Our team of three Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)-registered Music Therapists delivers clinically grounded support that helps children express themselves, build communication skills, and grow emotionally.
“Music therapy has given our child the opportunity to explore their love of music and the different types of instruments and sounds in a calm and safe setting. The therapist is truly attuned and supportive to our child’s individual needs and this helps to make each session a wonderful regulating experience for them.”
Parent of a Music Therapy student
“Music Therapy is an established psychological clinical intervention, delivered by HCPC registered Music Therapists to help people whose lives have been affected by injury, illness or disability through supporting their psychological, emotional, cognitive, physical, communicative and social needs” – British Association of Music Therapy (BAMT), 2023
How it works
Through musical improvisation, therapists observe and respond to each child’s unique needs. Music becomes a safe space where children who struggle with verbal communication can express feelings, develop early language skills, and explore aspects of their personality that may not emerge elsewhere.
What it offers
★ A supportive environment that builds trust and confidence
★ Development of self-esteem and emotional expression
★ Enhanced communication and social skills
★ Individual and group sessions tailored to each child’s needs
Pricing
Please email Iain McKnight for further details imcknight@nmpat.co.uk
Curriculum music
Delivering high-quality classroom music
Does your school have a specialist music teacher? If not, we can help.
We can meet all the music delivery needs of your school through National Curriculum planning, delivery of the sessions, and training to cover everything required by schools for curriculum music. We ensure that we are not just covering the National Curriculum but also the Model Music Curriculum, giving your students the very best music education.
Whole-class teaching by specialists
Our whole class delivery for KS1 and KS2 is led by experienced and qualified practitioners. Running for 33 weeks of the year, we follow your school or MAT’s Music Development Plan or Curriculum Plan for Music, ensuring seamless integration with your educational goals.
Key Features:
★ National Curriculum planning and delivery
★ Model Music Curriculum coverage
★ Experienced and qualified practitioners
★ Whole class delivery for KS1 and KS2
★ 33 weeks of the year with the option to purchase additional sessions
★ Follows your school or MAT’s Music Development Plan
Pricing
£63 per hour
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
For Secondary settings, requiring support in delivery please contact cjeffs@nmpat.co.uk
Enriching your school’s music experience
Enhance your school’s music provision with specialist short-term projects designed to inspire pupils, build skills and support your curriculum goals.
Our programmes are flexible, engaging and delivered by experienced NMPAT practitioners.
Let’s Get Playing
5-weeks (KS1)
A whole-class introduction to making music together, focusing on pulse, rhythm and early ensemble skills.
Led by Early Years specialists, this programme provides a strong foundation for musical learning. All instruments and materials are provided.
Let’s Sing
5-weeks – 45 mins (KS1 & KS2)
Develop Your Voice. Boost Your Confidence.
Kick-start your learners’ voice and vocal skills with five weekly sessions led by an NMPAT vocal specialist. Fun singing sessions where students explore their voices, learn songs, and develop vocal skills in line with the National Curriculum.
Projects can be tailored to meet your school’s needs:
★ Improving confidence
★ Starting a choir
★ Building on skills and songs
★ Building towards a performance
Primary Vocal
10-weeks – 30 mins, minimum 2 classes = 1 hour (KS1 and KS2)
Covering National Curriculum elements of performance, for schools seeking to make singing part of their culture. Build your skills and increase your song bank through:
★ Healthy vocals and breathing techniques
★ Singing for wellbeing
★ Vocal exercises
★ Building a sustainable singing culture in your school
Music for Wellbeing
5-weeks (45-minute sessions) (KS1 and KS2)
A program of lessons designed to support and develop pupils’ mental and emotional wellbeing. Through mindfulness and musical exploration with an NMPAT teacher, students will grow their toolkit to build connection and manage emotions whilst gaining musical confidence and knowledge.
Requirements: Classroom or spacious quiet area, whiteboard, and sound system. Class teacher or TA support required.
Pricing
Programme
Let’s Get Playing 5 weeks KS1 £275
Let’s Sing 5 weeks KS1 – KS2 £275
Primary Vocal 10 weeks KS1 – KS2 £550
Music for Wellbeing 5 weeks KS1 – KS2 £275
Music Production
Compose. Record. Produce. Introduce pupils to the creative world of music technology. Students learn how to sample, manipulate and combine sounds while exploring digital composition and production techniques.
Ideal for engaging Key Stage 2, 3 & 4 pupils through contemporary music-making and technology. These sessions are fully resourced and delivered using the latest Digital Audio Workstation software and hardware
Ensemble Direction
Bring music alive in your school
Expert music leadership to bring your group musicmaking to life with leadership and direction from a professional musician and educator.
We offer:
★ Choir direction
★ Instrumental groups tailored to develop your students
★ Mixed ensembles or targeted groups
★ Enhanced musical experience through professional direction
Get in touch to find out what we can do for you and discover what we’re doing in schools near you.
Pricing
Music Production – price on request
Ensemble Direction – £55 per hour
Transform your school’s music provision
Contact us to discuss which curriculum enhancement options best suit your school’s needs and how we can support you to deliver music technology opportunities to your learners.
Get started
Bring the joy of music to your pupils and strengthen your curriculum offer. nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Continued Professional Development (CPD)
Supporting music educators across our region
Alongside instrumental tuition, ensembles and music centres, NMPAT provides a wide range of Continued Professional Development opportunities for music education professionals.
Working through the Northamptonshire and Rutland Music Hub, we support teachers, subject leaders and school staff to strengthen their music provision and develop their own professional practice.
Collaboration and peer support
Through our Music Cluster groups, teachers from across the two counties come together to share ideas, resources and best practice.
This network encourages collaboration between schools and helps to build a strong and supportive music education community.
Support also includes:
★ Peer learning through the Lead Schools programme
★ Curriculum consultation and guidance from NMPAT specialists
★ Opportunities for teachers to share expertise and develop their practice
Training and development opportunities
NMPAT offers a comprehensive programme of CPD courses, workshops and training events, delivered by experienced practitioners and music education specialists.
These sessions support teachers to develop their skills, pedagogy and confidence, ensuring young people across Northamptonshire and Rutland benefit from high-quality music teaching.
New! For all SEND, Primary and Secondary teaching colleagues
NMPAT Music Education Conference
Tuesday 2nd February 2027
Pricing: FREE to all Northamptonshire and Rutland Schools – limited spaces available.
To reserve your space visit nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
Individual tuition Pathways outside school
Our premium Kettering Road tuition offers a focused, high-quality learning experience in a specialist music setting. Students learn with expert tutors in dedicated teaching spaces, with lessons tailored to their goals— whether that’s building confidence from the very first notes, preparing for graded exams, or progressing towards advanced study. Alongside lessons, students can access ensemble opportunities, performance experiences and progression pathways that help them grow musically and stay motivated.
Pricing
£90.75 per month for a weekly 30 minute lesson
20, 30, 40 and 60-minute options are available with flexible payment options
Little Stars string lessons
No prior experience needed
Musical adventures for 5 to 7-year-olds
Little Stars introduces young learners to the world of string instruments in a fun, nurturing environment. Through music, movement and song, children explore the fundamentals of violin, viola or cello while building confidence and coordination.
What children develop
★ Communication and listening skills
★ Coordination and musical awareness
★ Confidence and self-expression
★ The foundations of string instrument playing
Sessions are designed specifically for younger learners, encouraging creativity and enjoyment while introducing core musical skills.
Key Features
★ Small group sessions led by experienced teachers
★ Violin, viola or cello introduction
★ Free instrument loan included
★ Supportive and engaging learning environment
Session Details
★ Location: Kettering Road centre
★ Session length: 30 minutes, once per week
★ Duration: 33 weeks per year
★ Cost: £22.80 per month
★ Instrument: Free loan included
Get started
nmpat.co.uk/learn-with-us/music/lessons
Musical Stars
A welcoming music group for young people with SEND
Music has a unique power to connect, express, and inspire. Our Musical Stars sessions provide a safe, supportive space where young people with special educational needs and disabilities can explore the joy of music together.
What participants develop
In our carefully structured sessions, participants discover new ways to communicate, connect with others, and express themselves through the universal language of music. Each session is designed to support:
★ Social skills and peer interaction
★ Communication and self-expression
★ Confidence building in a relaxed setting
★ Build self-esteem and a sense of wellbeing
★ Musical exploration and creativity
Key Features
★ Small group sessions
★ Specialist SEND-trained staff
★ Flexible, inclusive delivery
★ Supportive and welcoming environment
Session Details
★ Location: Kettering Road centre
★ Session length: 30 minutes, once per week (term time)
★ Duration: 10 weeks per term
★ Cost: £22.80 per month
Small group sizes ensure each young person receives the support they need while enjoying the benefits of making music together.
Aural Classes
Exam preparation with confidence
Taking an instrumental exam? Our aural classes give students the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the listening component. Tailored to specific grades and exam boards, these focused sessions cover all the required content while providing plenty of practice in a supportive group setting.
Students will master the key elements of their aural test, learn valuable tips and techniques, and work through examstyle tasks together. It’s the perfect way to turn exam anxiety into exam readiness.
Session Details
★ Location: Kettering Road
★ Session length: 30 minutes
★ Duration: 33 weeks per year
★ Cost: £22.80 per month
Music Theory Classes
Master the language of music
Our music theory classes help students develop the knowledge and understanding that underpin musical performance, composition and analysis.
By learning the language of rhythm, harmony and notation, students gain the skills needed to interpret, perform and create music with greater confidence.
Whether preparing for Grade 5 theory, supporting GCSE or A Level study, or deepening their general musical understanding, our expert-led classes provide a clear and structured foundation.
Who these classes are for
★ Students preparing for Grade 5 theory (required for ABRSM practical exams Grade 6 and above)
★ GCSE and A Level music students
★ Young composers developing their creative ideas
★ Instrumentalists and singers looking to strengthen their musicianship
★ Adult or lifelong learners exploring music theory
Key features
★ Small group classes (4–8 students)
★ Structured preparation for music theory exams
★ Expert tuition from experienced NMPAT specialists
★ Support for both academic and practical musicians
Session details
★ Location: Kettering Road
★ Session length: 30 minutes
★ Duration: 33 weeks per year
★ Cost: £22.80 per month
Music Production Classes
Create, produce and mix from your own home studio
Our music production classes introduce students to the creative and technical skills used in modern music production. Delivered through live online sessions, students learn how to compose, record and mix their own music while developing confidence with industrystandard tools and techniques.
Whether taking their first steps or building on existing experience, our courses provide practical guidance from experienced tutors who understand both the technical and creative aspects of music production.
Key features
★ Live online sessions delivered via Zoom
★ Expert tutors with industry experience
★ Grouped by experience level
★ Practical, hands-on learning from the first session
★ Opportunities to create and produce original tracks
Course levels
Beginner
An introduction to music production covering the fundamentals needed to start creating music confidently.
Students learn:
★ How to use a digital audio workstation (DAW)
★ Sequencing and editing techniques
★ Basic use of audio and MIDI
★ Studio equipment and recording basics
★ Listening skills for production
★ Balancing and shaping a simple mix
Intermediate
For students ready to expand their skills and develop more advanced production techniques.
Students learn:
★ Producing complete tracks from scratch
★ Mixing using EQ, compression and effects
★ Remixing and working with audio stems
★ Sound design fundamentals
★ Microphone techniques and studio setup
★ Advanced listening and analysis skills
Advanced (one-to-one lessons)
Personalised sessions tailored to individual goals. Students receive expert guidance to develop their own projects, refine production techniques and explore specific musical styles.
What you’ll need
Essential
★ Computer (Mac or PC)
★ Internet connection
★ Headphones or studio monitors
Recommended
★ DAW software
★ MIDI keyboard (optional)
Students who are new to production will receive guidance on selecting suitable equipment.
Course
details
★ Delivery: Online via Zoom
★ Group sessions: Beginner and intermediate levels
★ Advanced lessons: One-to-one tuition available
Get started nmpat.co.uk/bookservices
★ Pricing: Beginner and intermediate group sessions (1 hour) £27 per month. Advanced one-to-one lessons (30 mins) £90.75 per month.
Adult Lessons
It’s never too late to begin
Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning after years away, NMPAT offers welcoming, expert-led lessons designed around your goals and pace.
Why learn music as an adult?
★ Mental stimulation and focus
★ Stress relief and relaxation
★ Personal achievement and creative expression
★ Connection with other musicians
★ A lifelong, enriching experience
What we offer
★ One-to-one tuition with experienced teachers
★ Flexible pacing tailored to your goals
★ A supportive, welcoming environment
★ Daytime lessons at our Kettering Road base
★ Choose from a wide range of instruments (see full list on page 12).
Lesson details
★ Location: Kettering Road
★ Length: 30 minutes
★ Schedule: Daytime, term time
★ Format: Individual tuition
★ Pricing: £90.75 per month for a 30 minute (weekly) individual lesson
Ensembles
A structured progression pathway
County Ensembles
NMPAT’s county ensembles offer young musicians an exceptional platform for musical, personal, and social growth through collaborative performance.
A Clear Path Forward
Our tiered progression system ensures every student finds the right fit – from first-time ensemble members to advanced performers. As skills grow, so do opportunities.
28 Weekly Groups. Every Genre.
Brass bands. Chamber groups. Choirs. Folk. Guitar ensembles. Jazz bands. Percussion. String orchestras. Theatre. Wind bands. Whatever your passion, there’s a home for it here.
Nationally Recognised Excellence
Our ensembles regularly shine at Music for Youth and the National Concert Band Festival, celebrated for their artistry and ambition.
Perform on the Biggest Stages
From Derngate theatre in Northampton to international summer tours, our students experience unforgettable performances that mark milestones in their musical journeys.
Join Us
Membership is by annual audition. Our junior groups hold open rehearsals in the early part of the summer term and we would encourage any prospective new members to come along and try out before they audition. We offer flexible audition options – in-person or informal group auditions (for entry level applications), to ensure the process is accessible and supportive for all.
View full list of Ensembles: nmpat.co.uk/ensembles
Pricing
One ensemble – £36 per month
Multiple ensembles or Centre plus ensemble – £46.50 per month
Learning in the Community
Music and Performing Arts Centres across Northamptonshire and Rutland
NMPAT Centres
A welcoming gateway to music and performing arts across both counties. We have Saturday Centres from Brackley to Oundle, midweek sessions, specialist Y-Not Arts for young people with additional needs, and a vibrant Youth Theatre.
Every stage, every student
From Early Years to teens, we offer a progressive pathway that grows with each learner. Young children discover music through movement, rhythm, and handson exploration of percussion, recorder, violin, and ukulele. As they grow, students build skills, explore new pathways, and progress into advanced ensembles.
Beyond Music
Instrumental learning is our foundation, but we celebrate the full spectrum of performing arts:
★ Dance
★ Drama
★ Singing and vocal training
★ Musical theatre
Your creative home
Some students use centres as a springboard to our county ensemble programme. For some students, the Centres are a spring board to an affordable, inspiring space where passion for music and performing arts flourishes.
Expert teachers, exceptional experiences
Skilled tutors deliver engaging sessions that inspire students to fulfil their potential while maintaining the highest standards. Every young person is encouraged to discover their voice and reach new heights.
Expert teaching and inspiring environments
Centre sessions are led by skilled and experienced tutors who bring enthusiasm, expertise and a wide range of musical styles to their teaching.
They create an environment where learning feels engaging and enjoyable while maintaining high musical standards and encouraging every young person to reach their potential.
Full information: nmpat.co.uk/centres
Financial Support
NMPAT is committed to ensuring all children and young people reach their full potential, supporting those in need of financial assistance by providing access to bursaries and subsidies. Further information on financial assistance can be found at: nmpat.co.uk/finance-admin/families/financial-support
Centre Membership Standard – whole morning
One session only and Towcester After School Club
County Ensemble plus Centre
Little Stars at Centres
Y-Not
AMS (assistance with membership subscriptions)
£36 per month
£25.50 per month
£46.50 per month
£25.50 per month
£25.50 per month
£10.50 per month
Safeguarding
Embedded safeguarding culture
Keeping children and young people safe
As a reputable organisation with nearly 60-years’ experience in the field of music and performing arts education, NMPAT places safeguarding and child protection in particular at the heart of all it does. Our team are experts in their respective fields, and we strive for the same level of excellence in our approach to Safeguarding.
Safer recruitment and training
Upon appointment, all NMPAT staff undergo the same rigorous checks and vetting that any individual being appointed to a school, academy or college would, in line with statutory government guidance for safer recruitment. Effective safeguarding relies on a strong and embedded culture, and this approach continues through annual training, both in-person and online.
Raising and reporting concerns
We encourage anyone working with us – students, staff, schools, parents and carers – to speak freely and openly about anything which they may be concerned about.
A dedicated page on our website provides information about our Safeguarding Team, our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and our letter of assurance to schools.
Any concerns about safeguarding can also be reported via this page: nmpat.co.uk/safeguarding
Supporting NMPAT
Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust is a Registered Charity (No. 1145643) and Company Limited by Guarantee (Company no. 07738151) with charitable objects to:
Advance education within the framework of the arts for the benefit of the public of Northamptonshire and elsewhere.
Advance the arts and culture for the benefit of the public, particularly, but not exclusively, by promoting and facilitating access to and performances of music and other arts forms.
Provide for the recreation of children, young people and adults for the benefit of the public by providing facilities and services to them in the interests of social welfare with the object of improving conditions of life.
Supporting our work
NMPAT depends on a combination of financial donations, grants and fees payable, to enable delivery for our current young people and for future generations. Support from individuals and organisations contributes to enabling music and artistic education and ensemble opportunities for children and young people within Northamptonshire. Donations can be made at any time, to NMPAT.
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