Sound World

Sound World is a UK-registered music charity (charity number 1178026) founded in 2018 with the mission of making great music accessible to everyone, encapsulated in its motto “Great music for everyone.” The organization focuses on music education, outreach, concert promotion, and commissioning new works, particularly targeting contemporary classical music and engaging diverse audiences in the South West of England[1][2][3][4].

History and Background

Sound World was founded by British composer Julian Leeks, who also serves as its director. The charity's patrons include notable figures such as Dame Evelyn Glennie and Armando Iannucci. Since its inception, the organization has sought to develop the region’s musical landscape by nurturing young talent, commissioning new compositions, and producing innovative concert experiences that combine local, national, and international artists[3].

Activities and Programs

Concert Series and Commissions

Sound World runs a concert series featuring The Sound World Group, its resident band, which performs contemporary works by both established and emerging composers. The organization commissions new music, providing composers—ranging from early-career artists to internationally acclaimed figures—with opportunities for professional premieres and recordings[1][2].

Education and Outreach

A major aspect of Sound World’s work is its education and outreach projects, which aim to support young musicians, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Initiatives include composition workshops in schools, talks, and an annual composition competition for young composers. One notable project, The Composing Club, worked with disadvantaged pupils around Bristol and Bath, culminating in performances and recordings by The Bristol Ensemble[3][4].

Sound World also collaborates with educational and cultural institutions, such as We The Curious (a science center in Bristol), Bristol University, and over 60 schools, to create programs that blend music and learning. For example, In The Steps of Apollo was a music and planetarium show developed in partnership with We The Curious, commemorating the Apollo 11 Moon landing's 50th anniversary in 2019[1][3].

Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, when live events were largely suspended, Sound World launched the Coronavirus Fund for Freelance Musicians. This initiative crowdfunded support for freelance performers by commissioning new works from composers who waived their fees. The resulting pieces were recorded by members of The Bristol Ensemble under lockdown conditions, sustaining creative activity during a difficult period for performing artists[3].

Partnerships and Collaborations

Sound World collaborates with a broad array of arts, cultural, and educational partners. These include organizations such as We The Curious, Hauser & Wirth, St. George’s Bristol, The Royal West of England Academy (RWA), Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, and numerous schools across the South West. These partnerships enhance the charity's ability to deliver high-quality music programming and outreach initiatives[1].

Governance and Location

The charity is governed by a board of trustees, with Sadie Harrison serving as Chair. It operates primarily in the South West of England, striving to build a strong regional identity in contemporary music while maintaining an outward-looking, ambitious approach[3].

Sound World continues to champion contemporary music and education through innovative projects, aiming to enrich the cultural life of its community and ensure that great music remains accessible to all, regardless of background.

Summary Table

[1] https://sound-world.org [2] https://sound-world.org/about/ [3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sound_World [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1178026&subId=0 [5] https://www.sounduk.net/page-2/about/