Learn to Play is Music for All’s annual flagship event - the biggest free music making weekend of the year and we are excited to be involved
Coventry Music is proud to be taking part in Learn to Play Week 2026, a national initiative that encourages people of all ages to experience the benefits of making music. As part of the celebrations, Coventry Music and partners across the Heart of England Music Hub will be opening their doors to welcome new young musicians and families to try a wide range of musical activities.
The highlight of Coventry's programme will be the Have a Go Day at The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum on Saturday 10 October, from 10am to 2pm. The free drop-in event will give visitors the chance to try a variety of instruments, meet Coventry Music tutors and learn more about the many choirs, ensembles and music groups available across the city, many of which are free to attend.
Throughout the week, Coventry Music will also be offering free "come and try" sessions for children and young people, including Sparks instrumental groups, Singing Sparks choirs, Steel Pan Groups, a Youth Project Choir, and Little Notes music sessions for babies and pre-school children. Activities will take place at venues across Coventry including schools, The Albany Theatre, Earlsdon Methodist Church, The Wave and the Samaritans Centre.
The wider Heart of England Music Hub programme extends across Coventry, Warwickshire and Solihull, with more than 40 opportunities for young people to try beginner, intermediate and advanced ensembles. These include orchestras, wind bands, string groups, jazz ensembles, guitar groups, rock and pop bands, steel pan groups and more, providing musical opportunities for every stage of a young person's musical journey. View the full programme of events.
Mark Steele, Coventry Music Lead, said:
"Learn to Play Week is a fantastic opportunity for children, young people and families to discover just how accessible music-making can be. Whether you're picking up an instrument for the very first time or looking for a group to continue your musical journey, we would love to welcome you. Our Have a Go Day at The Herbert is the perfect place to explore the many opportunities available across Coventry and the wider Music Hub."
For more information and to register for activities please see the document below
