Why Support Misfits?
Help us bring people together through music
At Misfits Music, we believe music is about much more than the notes.
Music can bring people together, build confidence, create friendships, open up new opportunities and give people the satisfaction of being part of shared creativity.
Across Birmingham and the Black Country, we create welcoming opportunities for people to make music together, whether they are picking up an instrument or trying singing for the first time, returning after many years or looking for somewhere to keep developing their skills.
As a charity, support from individuals, funders, instrument donors and volunteers helps us make this possible.
Music that brings people together
Regular music-making gives people a reason to come together, work towards something meaningful and share the experience of creating and performing as a group.
Over time, these shared experiences can grow into friendships, confidence and a true sense of community.
For many of our participants, Misfits is not simply somewhere they come to play music. It is a community they are part of creating.
Music-making designed around people
We do not expect people to fit into a musical mould, as is common in the industry.
Our groups and arrangements are organised into parts rather than sections. These parts enable people with a wide range of abilities to contribute meaningfully to the same sound, develop their skills and progress with confidence.
Participants also help shape what happens. Through regular conversations, feedback and surveys, members can suggest music, influence the direction of their groups and help us understand what would make their experience even better.
The result is music-making that is shaped with people, not simply delivered to them.
Creating opportunities to grow
Taking part in music can mean many different things.
When someone steps into a Misfits Music group, it might be the first time they have played with other musicians. Or, it might mean returning to an instrument after decades away. Alternatively, it could involve learning a more challenging part, playing a solo, performing in public or discovering new confidence as a musician.
We want people to have the opportunity not only to participate, but to progress, create and feel proud of what they achieve.
Performances are an important part of that journey, giving participants the chance to share what they have worked towards and experience the excitement of creating something together for an audience.
Making music more accessible
Sadly, we know that cost, confidence, access needs, lack of opportunity and previous experiences of music-making can make participation feel out of reach.
We actively work to reduce these barriers and create more ways for people to get involved. Just some of the ways we do this are by keeping sessions affordable, adapting music, providing free or affordable access to instruments and equipment, developing inclusive projects and creating innovative new opportunities in communities where they are needed.
Your support makes music possible
Every form of support helps us create more opportunities for people to make music, develop their creativity and connect with communities.
Donate
Financial donations help us keep participation accessible, run groups and projects, provide equipment, fund performances and develop new opportunities.
Trusts, Foundations & Funders
Funding helps us sustain our work, develop new projects and create a lasting impact within the communities we work with.
Donate an Instrument
An instrument that is no longer being used can be treasured by a new musician. Support access to music and find a new home for an instrument with someone who will benefit.
Volunteer
Share your time, experience or skills and help make more music happen.