Our mates over at TRACKS, an organisation dedicated to helping young people get involved in the music industry, have secured three years of core funding thanks to the recently launched Ed Sheeran Foundation.
With funding from the recently formed foundation, TRACKS can now broaden its programmes, enhance its resources, and reach even more young individuals.
The funding comes on the back of a visit Ed paid to TRACKS, a charity and partner of Sheffield Music Hub, back in May 2024, where he saw their alternative provision for young people passionate about music. This visit predated the official launch of the Ed Sheeran Foundation and was a momentous occasion for the organisation.
During his visit, Sheeran performed with several young attendees, creating unforgettable memories and demonstrating the life-changing power of music. Lucy Revis, director of TRACKS, said his guidance to the students was both encouraging and practical: “Don’t be afraid of failure,” he advised, explaining that songwriting should be approached “like it’s a diary.”
Lucy said: “The visit had a lasting impact on the staff, volunteers, and most importantly, our young people. As a charity, you are constantly chasing funding to keep up the work you are doing, so to have the Ed Sheeran Foundation come to us, recognise that what we do is important, and want to support us and the way we choose to work with the students has been so transformative.”
To further support TRACKS’ mission, Sheeran donated guitars and loop pedals, equipping young musicians with tools to refine their craft. This contribution aligns with the foundation’s goal of improving access to music education and fostering creativity in young people.
“The arts are one of our main exports and something we should be proud of as a nation,” Sheeran has stated. “It’s essential that we support the next generation of musicians and songwriters, ensuring they have access to the opportunities and tools they need to succeed.”
The staff and students at TRACKS expressed heartfelt gratitude for Sheeran’s visit and generosity. The day concluded with performances that showcased the extraordinary talent within TRACKS.
Since Ed’s visit, TRACKS have expanded their offerings to include a second day of alternative provision, launched an open mic night and youth club, and further developed their thriving Saturday Music School in Sheffield’s S2 area. In addition to these projects, TRACKS visit hospitals, schools, community groups, fostering and social care events, and passionately share their learning around working with young people in different settings.
For more information about the Ed Sheeran Foundation, visit edsheeranfoundation.com.
To learn more about TRACKS, visit tracksuk.com.
