The legacy of recently closed charity Voices Foundation is set to continue through a new teacher support programme announced by ABRSM.‘ABRSM Voices’ will offer CPD opportunities, bespoke curriculums and engagement support across a wide range of settings, from schools and MATs to music hubs and choral festivals.The programme will be delivered by a team of practitioners who previously worked with Voices Foundation, led by the charity’s former choral director, Charles MacDougall, and musicianship director, Jenny Trattles.The programme will extend ABRSM’s offer to school music teachers, building on relationships forged through initiatives such as Classroom 200 and the Teacher Hub.‘It's my hope that, together, we will be able to create programmes and opportunities with the potential for real impact on our music education landscape’, MacDougall said.Voices Foundation ceased operations in May after three decades of supporting the development of children and young people through singing, saying that it could no longer operate in the current economic climate.Hilary Smethurst-Evans, ABRSM’s curriculum manager, said: ‘Jenny, Charles and their team really are the very best at what they do. The programme will allow them to continue their inspiring work.’
Trattles added: ‘With my primary curriculum expertise, real-life experience in schools, and commitment to empowering teachers who don't yet know they're music teachers, I look forward to making a significant and far-reaching impact.’More information about ABRSM Voices can be found on the ABRSM Teacher Hub or by emailing voices@abrsm.ac.uk
