Berkshire Music Trust

Berkshire Music Trust: music education for all ages in Berkshire

Berkshire Music Trust is a registered charity operating under the trading name Berkshire Maestros. Its work focuses on music education in the English region of Berkshire, with instrumental and vocal lessons delivered both in schools and at its own music centres. The organisation states it has over forty years of experience providing musical opportunities in the area and notes that its launch was celebrated with a concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

The organisation describes itself as working to educate, inspire and encourage children, young people and adults to begin their musical journey and develop their potential. According to its figures, its staff and activities reach more than 4,000 children who sing and learn instruments each week, and over 300 schools in Berkshire that it supports in delivering music education.

Music lessons and ensembles

Instrumental and vocal teaching is the core of the organisation's activity. It offers individual and small group lessons, covering a wide range of instruments and all levels, in both classical and contemporary music. These lessons take place in schools and at the organisation's music centres across Berkshire.

In addition to lessons, the organisation runs various types of music groups for all ages and levels. These include instrumental ensembles, bands and orchestras, as well as choirs. The organisation describes these activities as a sociable way to make music with others, from beginners to county-level ensembles. It also has a contemporary music programme.

Early years and school programmes

For the youngest children, Berkshire Music Trust offers the Mini Maestros programme, aimed at ages 0 to 7, designed as an introduction to music learning. The organisation also has a network of associate providers for the early years stage.

In schools, the organisation supports schools across Berkshire through whole-class music lessons, curriculum support, extra-curricular music activities and performance opportunities, among other formats. It also maintains a dedicated early years music network in Berkshire.

Other activities and services

The organisation carries out activities that complement its main educational work. These include singing cafes, music therapy, team building days and the Space to Thrive programme. It also runs a shop and a music library, and offers instrument and room hire.

The organisation has an awards scheme and a bursary or financial support scheme for lesson fees, in order to facilitate access to music education. It also has a calendar of concerts and events, with concert dates announced for the 2026-27 season, and publishes information about term dates.

Charitable status and funding

Berkshire Music Trust operates as a registered charity and raises funds to support its aim of facilitating access to music education regardless of students' backgrounds. The organisation states that this purpose of making music for all is at the heart of the variety of opportunities it offers. Its institutional supporters include Arts Council England and Music Mark, and it presents itself as a partner of Berkshire Music Hub.

Institutional details

The legal entity is The Berkshire Young Musicians Trust Ltd, which operates under the trading name Berkshire Maestros. It is registered in England with number 1673689 and has recognised charitable status with number 284555. Its head office is in Reading, in the county of Berkshire, and the organisation operates in various areas of the region, including West Berkshire, Windsor, Wokingham, Reading, Bracknell and Caversham.

Location and contact

Stoneham Court, 100 Cockney Hill, Reading, RG30 4EZ · Phone: 0118 901 2370 · Email: contact@berksmusictrust.org.uk