The event featured a trio of violin, flute and cello, bringing the classic tale to life through interactive storytelling and live music. Supported by Note Weavers CIC’s ‘Sound Beginnings’ project which is funded by Youth Music, the performance aimed to increase access to music-making opportunities for young children.
This initiative forms part of a wider commitment to widening participation and early years engagement, strengthening the University’s long-standing partnerships with local schools and community organisations.
Heidi Winrow, Programme Leader Primary Early Years QTS UG at Edge Hill University, said: “This is a really special opportunity for our local schools and families. Bringing live music from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra into a familiar, welcoming setting helps to spark curiosity, creativity and confidence at such an important stage in development.
“We know how powerful early experiences of music can be, and being able to offer this free of charge means more children can access something they might not otherwise experience.”
By bringing professional musicians into the heart of the local community, the University is helping to remove barriers to cultural engagement, providing high-quality arts experiences to families who might not otherwise have the opportunity to attend such events.
Jennifer Redmond, Head of Learning, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, commented: “The musicians of BBC Philharmonic Orchestra are looking forward to returning to Edge Hill Arts Centre, this time with our exciting and interactive musical performance for young children. We’re particularly delighted that the shows will be available to both school groups and families and to be able to share the joy of live music with audiences in this part of the North West.”
Vic Holmes, Director, Note Weavers, added: “We are delighted to support these performances of The Gingerbread Man with the BBC Philharmonic taking place as part of our Sound Beginnings project, funded by Youth Music. Through musical storytelling young children can discover that music is more than just something to listen to, it is something to experience, explore and enjoy.
“Collaborating with Edge Hill for these performances has provided the opportunity to reach a large number of children across the area and families in the wider community. These performances at Edge Hill also reach students who will hopefully see the great value of taking music forward into their teaching practice. Projects such as these are vital in providing early encounters with live music which can inspire a lifelong love of learning, playing and listening to music.”
June 16, 2026
