The Nest Northwest

Help Save Free Music Workshops for Young People in the North West

The Nest Northwest – a vibrant youth music initiative delivered by Edsential Musical Routes – has just been crowned winner of the Children and Youth Arts Award at the Cheshire West Community and Voluntary Arts Awards. But even with this recognition, the future of the much-loved project hangs in the balance.

Launched in 2023 and based at The Hive in Winsford. The Nest Northwest has offered free weekly workshops for 13–16-year-olds to explore all aspects of life as a modern musician. Over the past two years, the project has reached over 323 young people. Delivered 490+ hours of tuition, hosted five major live events, and even helped young bands record their own albums.

The programme was praised by judges for its inclusive approach, the quality of its tutors — led by Jake Barnabas of The Luka State — and its inspiring impact on young people’s confidence, creativity, and career aspirations.

Participants have performed at music festivals, learned sound engineering skills, and worked alongside professionals who have graced major stages like Leeds and Reading.

However, without new funding, these weekly sessions could soon come to an end.

The programme was initially funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is now drawing to a close.

Why This Matters

Music changes lives. A recent Youth Music report found 57% of young people in the North West feel unsupported in their music journey. At The Nest, we’re changing that — by offering access, mentorship, and real-world opportunities to those who need it most.

“This programme gives young people the belief that they can make it. We’ve seen confidence soar, friendships form, and genuine talent emerge.”

— Alex Harper, Music Area Lead, Edsential

“As someone from the North West, it’s always been a dream of mine to give back. We’ve built something special — and I’d have jumped at this chance when I was a teen.”

— Jake Barnabas, Drummer from The Luka State & Creative Director

What Your Support Will Do

Your donation will go directly toward:

Keeping our free weekly music workshops running

Paying tutors and music professionals

Providing studio access and live performance opportunities

Helping young people create, record and share their music

Over 300 young people have already taken part — let’s make sure this doesn’t stop here.

Please give what you can. Share the campaign. Help us keep the music playing.

Any funding raised will go directly into supporting our young musicians to continue making music at The Nest from September.

Find out more about The Nest Northwest’s work:

THE NEST NORTHWEST (@the_nest_northwest) - Instagram

Stream The Nest Northwest music | Listen to songs, albums, playlists for free on SoundCloud

The Nest North West – Delivered by Edsential Music