APPG on Classical Music

The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Classical Music, met for its annual AGM on 18 March 2026 and I was re-elected Chair with Baroness Barbara Keeley as co Chair.  The APPG exists to bring together parliamentarians who have an interest in and wish to further the appreciation and championing of classical music; to act as an interface between British orchestras’ on and off-stage activities, the wider classical music industry and key decision makers and opinion formers.

After its regular business, we heard from a guest speaker, Sarah Derbyshire MBE. She is CEO of Orchestras Live, a national producing organisation that connects professional orchestras with communities across England to widen access, participation, and impact in orchestral music.

Sarah shared her insights regarding devolution in England, given Orchestras Live’s regional orchestral partnerships all over the country and the issues that have been addressed in the Hodge Review regarding social impact and investment.

Judith Webster, Chief Executive of the Association of British Orchestras (ABO), Sophie Lewis, Chair of ABO and Chief Executive of National Children’s Orchestras and Hanna Madalska-Gayer (ABO) were also present. 

Main image: London Schools Symphony Orchestra, Guildhall