HarrisonParrott Foundation
The HarrisonParrott Foundation (Charity No. 1186987) is a UK-based nonprofit organisation dedicated to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion within the arts, with a focus on music education and career development[1][2][3]. Established to challenge systemic barriers related to ethnicity, gender, disability, sexuality, and socioeconomic background, the foundation supports initiatives that ensure equal access to artistic participation and professional opportunities[1][3].

Mission and Vision

The foundation's mission is to foster a "vibrant and inclusive artistic landscape" by dismantling barriers in arts education and professional pathways[2]. It envisions a sector where diversity is actively celebrated and where individuals from underrepresented backgrounds receive equitable support to thrive in creative careers[2][3].

Key Initiatives

• Music Access Awareness Week: An annual campaign and symposium uniting educators, musicians, and organisations to address inclusivity challenges in music education[1].
• Higher Education and the Music Industry Pipeline: A symposium (partnered with Liverpool University in 2024) exploring systemic inequities in arts education and career transitions, featuring workshops, panels, and performances[4].
• Partnerships: Collaborates with entities like the Tri-Borough Music Hub, Creative Access, Open Up Music, and Awards for Young Musicians to fund access programs, diversify arts workforces, and support emerging talent[1][3].

Governance and Impact

Governed by seven trustees and managed by a team including former arts professionals, the foundation emphasizes grassroots engagement[3][5]. Trustees include Katya Walker-Arnott, an arts management specialist with experience at institutions like the Philharmonia Orchestra, and Nichole Burley-Burton, an advocate for arts accessibility rooted in her state-school education[5].

In its 2023 financial year, the foundation reported £37,459 in income and £31,697 in expenditures, directing funds toward educational programs, advocacy events, and grant partnerships[3].

Criticism and Public Perception

No significant criticism is documented in publicly available sources. The foundation is recognized for its focused advocacy and collaborative approach to systemic change in arts education[1][3].

See Also

• Arts Council England
• Creative Access
• Awards for Young Musicians

References

Charity Commission entry · Official website · 2024 Symposium

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Formatting in Markdown as instructed; references styled as internal Wikipedia links for coherence.

[1] https://www.harrisonparrott.com/foundation/what-we-do [2] https://www.harrisonparrott.com/foundation [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1186987&subid=0 [4] https://www.harrisonparrott.com/foundation/hp-foundation-symposium-higher-education-the-industry-pipeline [5] https://www.harrisonparrott.com/foundation/meet-the-team-trustees