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Learning & Participation

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Learning programmes

  • Group of children smiles, being inspired

    Live Experiences

    We give young people the opportunity to discover classical music live, with visits to concerts and the Hastings International Piano Competition. Pupils can see professional musicians perform, find out more about the competition and enjoy the excitement of hearing live music in a concert setting.

    Find out more
  • Teacher and pianist in a class room setting with children

    Schools

    Our Schools’ programme brings quality classical music into primary schools in Hastings through tried-and-tested one-day sessions led by experienced workshop facilitators. No musical experience is needed – just enthusiasm! Designed for everyone, including pupils with SEND or English as an additional language, the day begins with a talented young pianist playing music specially chosen for a young audience.

    Find out more
  • Intern working behind a merchandise stand at a concert

    Breakthrough

    Our Breakthrough programme, delivered in partnership with Artswork, supports young people looking to develop their skills and experience within the creative industries. The six-month programme provides wraparound support for both employer and candidate, helping us to offer meaningful opportunities while developing fresh ideas within our organisation.

    Find out more

  • Tots Workshops

    Designed for toddlers and their grown-ups, these playful workshops combine music, movement, and live piano performances to create a fun and engaging introduction to classical music - a wonderful way for little ones to explore their creativity and for families to enjoy a shared musical experience.

    Find out more

We want children across Hastings to have access to quality musical opportunities, helping them discover and enjoy music

Our Learning programme brings music to local communities through a range of activities, from working with local schools and showcasing local talent to making music more accessible and overcoming barriers to participation.

The programme relies entirely on funding from Trusts and Foundations and donations from our supporters.

If you’re interested in our Learning programme, please email info@hastingsinternationalpiano.org

Community

  • Sounds of Creativity

    Our new Sunday wellbeing series pairs classical piano with art in a calm, welcoming environment. Attendees are guided by a trained artist facilitator who will help them to produce their own artwork in response to live music performed by one of our pianists. This programme supports mental health and connection, offering a unique introduction to the world of classical piano. 

    Find out more

  • FREE ticket scheme

    We’re passionate about making classical music accessible to everyone. Our Free Ticket Scheme offers a portion of tickets to our recitals and the competition completely free for Community Groups (Charities, support groups, carers) and Public Service Employees (teachers, NHS workers, and emergency service personnel).  

    This is our way of saying thank you and ensuring music reaches every corner of our community. Please contact us today if you’d like to attend one of our events or you know someone who would be interested. 

    Find out more

  • Music in the Meadow

    Music in the Meadow showcases the musical talents of the people of Hastings. Every year we install a grand piano in the Priory Meadow shopping centre and offer everyone the chance to play. Whether you’re a complete novice or a professional musician, you are very welcome to book a slot, invite an audience (or play to whoever happens to be passing), and enjoy your own moment in the limelight.  

    If you’d like to perform, or you are a teacher and would like your pupils to have the opportunity, please let us know by completing this form.

    Sign up here

  • Carehome concerts

    We bring the magic of live music into care homes, creating intimate and uplifting performances for residents and staff. Our young pianists perform a varied programme of piano music, creating opportunities to enjoy live music together, spark memories and share moments of reminiscence with loved ones.

    Find out more

We seek new ways to share music with our community through live performances and workshops in a variety of settings

We’re lucky to have a pool of fantastic young pianists who have taken part in the competition, and we’re delighted to showcase their talents through performances and workshops in the community.

If you’re interested in our community outreach, please email info@hastingsinternationalpiano.org

In their words

  • "For someone who can be hard on myself and a bit of a perfectionist, having permission to just create without any defined goal was incredibly freeing. I could feel my mind relax throughout the process, which was definitely helped by the beautiful music and sunset"

    Sounds of Creativity Participant, 2025

  • “I felt the children were fully engaged and respected both Sam and Gabriele [pianist]. They were eager to take part and continually showed that they wanted to be involved by sharing their thoughts and ideas about the songwriting process”

    Feedback from music lead Andrew Mersh at Silverdale Primary Academy 

  • “The thing that inspired me was Rose, I have a keyboard at home, and I love playing on it, Rose made me want to learn how to play the piano, thank you Rose!”

    Feedback from Year 5 pupil at St Paul’s School on Rose McLachlan, 2024 HIPCC competitor

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