We’re pleased to return with another instalment of our Behind The Change series, showcasing the excellent work done by third-sector organisations. We hope to spotlight the positive impact these groups have on the lives of the people they engage with and their local communities. By bringing attention to these often-unsung heroes, we aim to support their work and signpost the way others can support their future initiatives, too.

From Conservatoire to Community

Back in 2015, two composition graduates of the renowned Birmingham Conservatoire couldn’t have foreseen the impact they would soon have upon the musical landscape of their adopted city. Rob Jones, a composer and saxophonist, would go on to complete his master's at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague, while composer and percussionist Reuben Penny worked as a professional musician and photographer.

It took until 2018, and Rob’s return from Holland, for the two to reconvene and establish the Moseley Misfits. A local music group, it was designed to bring together anyone with a love for music and some rudimentary skills with an instrument. Welcoming adults across the broadest range of musical abilities to meet, play, and perform together, the group immediately struck a chord within their community.

Conducting Connection

Rob and Reuben shared a fundamental belief in the power of music to reduce loneliness and improve the mental and physical well-being of those who played it. Beyond the development of musical skills, they hoped to bring joy, hope, and lasting value to the lives of their members.

They theorised that regular participation in a musical ensemble would help people forge new community connections, break down social barriers, and combat feelings of loneliness. The years since, and the exponential growth and success of the Misfits Music Institute project, have only served to prove them right.

The COVID-19 pandemic saw the importance of their work receive recognition, as people everywhere struggled with unprecedented feelings of isolation. In response, they quickly expanded their organisation to encompass the wealth of sessions running today. As Rob describes it, “We at Misfits Music work closely with our community to create unique and accessible spaces and experiences for people to improve their wellbeing through music.”

They now run eight weekly community music sessions for people of all backgrounds in Birmingham and Sandwell, as well as facilitating one-off workshops and large-scale public performances. Their initiatives include orchestras, community rock bands, smaller instrumental ensembles, singing sessions, and groups for adults experiencing mental health challenges.

Dabble and Scrunch sessions, meanwhile, are specifically for people aged 16+ with learning disabilities, plus their carers. Participants explore music and sound through listening, playing, singing, movement, and games, so everyone can take part in a way that suits them.

Approximately 160 people engage with these sessions each week, totalling around 850 each year. They reach an additional 5,000 people each year with concerts, events, and one-off workshops, helping raise awareness and generate valuable funding to continue their work.

The Proven Benefits of Making Music Together

Fundamental to their outlook is a belief that communal music-making, and its profound psycho-social benefits, should be accessible to everyone, regardless of knowledge and skill level. In fact, a growing body of academic research suggests that people struggling physically or mentally stand to gain the most from group musical pursuits. A 2024 article in Musicæ Scientiæ explored how collaborative music engagement fosters empathy, agency, and belonging in older people. Participants reported feeling more connected, less anxious, and more capable of expressing themselves.

Similarly, a 2023 systematic review- How Participatory Music Engagement Supports Mental Well-being- found that participating in group music activities significantly improves emotional coping, social bonding, and quality of life, particularly for adults facing mental health challenges or social isolation. And of rhythm-making music groups, a 2017 review found they led to a marked improvement in the psychological health of participants, lowering stress levels, reducing anxiety, improving mood, energy levels, and creating feelings of empowerment.

Making Music For Everyone

In addition to running audition-free sessions open to all, Rob and Reuben create musical scores suitable for absolute beginners, so everyone can play along, regardless of training. The Bearwood Rock Collective doesn’t require members to read music, helping people learn their parts aurally. Similarly, the Birmingham Drum Battery helps absolute beginners learn basic rudiments and drumming patterns, while also offering opportunities to play and perform together.         

The B30 Ensemble, on the other hand, is aimed at those who can read some basic notation or tablature. They hold regular performances and social activities for the group, too, open to all members to enjoy.

Misfits Music Institute pricing model is also built around openness and accessibility, with free first sessions, flexible memberships, and bursaries available, ensuring no one is priced out. This inclusive and welcoming ethos is evidenced by the warm and supportive atmosphere at every session, where snacks and opportunities to chat and socialise are standard.

Helping the City to Keep on Singing

The community feeling they’ve managed to create has been on display for the world to see at huge performances like their 2024 Brum Rocks Live! event. Hundreds of amateur musicians, many from traditionally marginalised communities, joined forces to play Brummie Steel, an original composition penned by Birmingham poet laureate Jasmine Gardosi. Performers included retirees, cancer survivors, migrants, people with disabilities, and many more, convening to play together and celebrate the rich musical heritage of their city

It came at a time when Birmingham City Council’s bankruptcy had seen funding for arts and culture slashed by 100%. While many were hugely demoralised and still reeling from the after-effects of the pandemic, Brum Rocks Live! brought a palpable sense of optimism. This was a chance to forge community bonds, and for thousands to take pride in the incredible m.usical legacy of Birmingham, uniting the city in hope and shared creativity.

Speaking to The Guardian about his involvement in the project, 66-year-old guitarist, retiree, and cancer sufferer Steve Groome summed up its impact beautifully. “It has been life-changing, really. It has really built my confidence. It’s a great outlet, and so good for mental health”, he said.

These sentiments are echoed by many other Misfits Music Institute participants, too. Marlena Lang shared, “Great group of people. Super welcoming and the experience was life changing for me.”

Birmingham’s Cultural Heartbeat

Not ones to rest on their laurels, Rob and Reuben have numerous events in the pipeline. Their Summer Concert, a musical bonanza is where Institute groups perform music inspired by the UK and journeys.

An upcoming workshop with Joe Novelli- vocalist from the sensational Sons of Pitches and conductor for the Northfield A Cappella Choir- will help those with learning disabilities and/or autism explore non-verbal ways to create sounds. From breathing and humming to mouth movements and expressive vocalisations, this exciting event goes beyond musical games and activities. It’s a space for empowerment, self-expression, and joyful experimentation, and also a fantastic opportunity to see and hear what a professional vocal artist can do with their voice.

Funding the Future of Community Music

Of course, all this work requires funds to continue, and while Rob’s insight in this area is extensive (his presentation ‘A Discussion on Alternate Funding Strategies’ covered alternative grant sources, crowdfunding, fundraising events, earned income, and more, all as ways to make community and engaged arts projects sustainable) support is always welcome.

Donations to their Just Giving page make a real difference and are always hugely appreciated. Or visit their Support Us page for alternative ways to contribute to the great work that Misfits Music Institute continues to do.

And finally, do you know of a third-sector organisation which deserves the RealWorth Spotlight? Please tell us about them- with a short (max 500 words) explanation of the good that they do- to VSCE.Spotlight@RealWorth.org.