The Untold Orchestra, a Manchester based community and arts organisation that I have had the privelege to work with over the past couple of years, is proud to announce its recent approval as a registered charity. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the organisation's mission to enhance the lives of individuals and communities it serves through providing uplifting, supportive and memorable creative experiences for people in Manchester, both on and off stage.
In 2018, a group of musicians established a small project aimed at offering up and coming Manchester artists the chance to perform their original music, backed by an orchestra. Since then, this small group has expanded, meeting and collaborating with hundreds of artists, developing exciting musical projects with communities across Manchester, and performing to hundreds of thousands of people.
A huge part of their growth has been due to the support of hundreds of musicians and creatives in Manchester, and communities local to Hulme's NIAMOS Arts Centre; a theatre based in Hulme that boasts an incredible history of music, community, culture and social change.
Founder Sam Davies said,
‘There’s not really a handbook for starting a new orchestra challenging perceptions of what an orchestra is - it’s been a huge learning curve that wouldn’t have been possible without the support, advice and encouragement that’s come from so many inspiring people for which we’re incredibly grateful.’
The news of charity status follows on from the recent appearance of the NIA Choir at the Royal Albert Hall in London and at BBC 6 Music Festival with Mercury Prize winning band Young Fathers.
Officially launched in September 2022, the Nia Choir is a women’s soul, R&B and blues community choir for residents of Hulme, Moss Side and surrounding areas. Led by Untold Orchestra singer Nicole Battick, the choir is open to all those who identify and align with womanhood, regardless of singing experience.
To mark the NIAMOS’ 6th birthday and charity launch, the Orchestra are hosting a celebratory evening at the venue on the 20th April.
Sam continued,
‘It’s going to be epic. The orchestra, the choir and a whole load of incredible Manchester artists all on stage at NIAMOS - we can’t wait! There’s discounted tickets available for anyone in Hulme or Moss Side. The venue means a lot to a lot of people, us included and we’re planning more shows and workshops for community members there"
For more information about The Untold Orchestra and how to support its charitable cause, please visit www.theuntoldorchestra.com or email info@theuntoldorchestra.com
For more information about the celebration evening and for tickets go to www.skiddle.com